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'The Power of the Queen: The Expulsion of the Jews in 1290, A New Interpretation'

Part of the 2024/25 Medieval Research Seminar Series


Event details

Abstract

The expulsion of Jews from England by King Edward I has been framed as an issue of parliament and government finance, initiated by the demands of petty barons and resentful Christian debtors, and as the natural aftermath of a failed “experiment” in curtailing Jewish “usury”. This paper argues that the expulsion was not the result of a longstanding governmental practical project, but was deeply personal, contingent and pious, spurred by the deathbed penitential practices of the dying queen (Eleanor of Castile) and queen mother (Eleanor of Provence) at the instigation of their mendicant confessors.

Only recently has the issue of 'queenship' come to scholarly attention - and the role, in particular, of Eleanor of Castile, has not garnered the attention it deserves. Long regarded as a romantic figure  uninvolved in poltics, she was financially astute, culturally innovative, and tough as nails. This paper argues she also had an important role to play in the expulsion.

Location:

Forum Seminar Room 07