Jews and Christian Art

Dr. Katherine-Aron Beller

 

This series delves into the enduring depiction of Jews as perpetrators of violence against images of Christ in Christian literature, legal accusations, and artistic works. Spanning from the Byzantine Empire in the 5th century to early modern Europe in the late 17th century, it examines how these portrayals—rooted in allegations of desecration—shaped perceptions of Jews and impacted their communities. Through a focus on late-medieval anti-Judaism, the series unpacks how art and imagery were weaponized to reinforce prejudice and persecution.

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