Presented by Dr. Jonathan Ray
Samuel Eig Professor of Jewish Studies, Department of Theology and Religious Studies, Georgetown University
Join us online for a close look at the rich and complex world of Sephardic Jewish life in medieval Spain.
The Jews of medieval Spain represent one of the most fabled societies in all of Jewish history. To this day, the outstanding philosophers, poets, and courtiers of the age – names like Maimonides, Judah Halevi, and Isaac Abravanel – remain beloved examples of Jewish cultural achievement. At the same time, the Spanish Inquisition and the summary Expulsion of the Jews from Spain in 1492 still rank among the most devastating events in Jewish history. But celebrating the triumphs of this society, and mourning its fate, is not the same as understanding it. The reality of daily life for Sephardic Jews was often far different, and perhaps far more familiar, than these legends would have us believe.
This talk will explore the diverse composition of Jewish communities and the ways Jews navigated their relationships with their Muslim and Christian neighbors. Together, we’ll take a fresh look at the era often called the “Golden Age” of Jewish civilization, and consider what this history might teach us about Jewish community, identity, and life today.
Register to receive the Zoom link to join us online. Barring technical issues, the recording of this talk will be posted in our Program Archive.
Jonathan Ray is the Samuel Eig Professor of Jewish Studies in the Department of Theology and Religious Studies at Georgetown University. He holds a B.A. from Tufts University in History and Religion, and a Ph.D. in Jewish History from the Jewish Theological Seminary. Professor Ray specializes in medieval and early modern Jewish history, focusing on Sephardic Jews. He is the author of several books and articles on Jewish history and culture. His latest book, Jewish Life in Medieval Spain: A New History, illuminates interfaith relations in Spain from the Jewish perspective.
We extend a special thank you to Andrew R. Ammerman for sponsoring our 2026 program lineup. He dedicates the semester’s learning in loving memory of Josephine and H. Max Ammerman and Stephen C. Ammerman.