From Real Friend to Imagined Foe: The Medieval Roots of Anti-Semitism as a Precondition for the Holocaust
Christopher Tuckwood
This study examines the medieval roots of European anti-Semitism as a precondition for Holocaust. The twelfth century saw an important transition from Jews being viewed adherents competing religion to dangerous, inhuman threats broader Christian society first time. Northern France is used case study, examining several Jewish, Christian, and secular primary sources understand factors leading gradual Jewish dehumanization. Growing Church influence resulting restrictions forced some into what would become their stereotypical occupation moneylending. Lacking awareness this process result propaganda, majority came see threat associated with foreign supernatural enemies. Ultimately, both people rulers found victimization desirable, culminating in burning Blois expulsion French Royal Domains. These results help explain beginning centuries-long which had already dehumanized by time that Nazis redefined racialized early twentieth century.
Genocide Studies and Prevention|Digital Commons - University of South Florida (University of South Florida)|Digital Commons - University of South Florida (University of South Florida)