The Jews of Wittenberg during the 16th Century and the Reformation: Why are They Absent from the Historical Narrative? (original) (raw)

This paper explores the often-overlooked narrative of Jewish communities during the Reformation, with a particular focus on the city of Wittenberg, the epicenter of Protestantism and Martin Luther’s revolutionary ideas. While Wittenberg is celebrated as the birthplace of the Reformation, the absence of Jews in its historical narrative raises important questions about the socio-political and religious dynamics of the period. By examining the legal status, social roles, and intellectual contributions of Jews in the Holy Roman Empire and beyond, this study reveals the complex and often precarious position of Jewish communities in a time of profound upheaval. The paper delves into Martin Luther’s evolving relationship with Judaism, from his initial hopes for Jewish conversion to his later, vehemently anti-Semitic writings, and analyzes how these shifts influenced broader Christian attitudes towards Jews. The rise of Christian Hebraism is discussed as a double-edged sword, bringing Jewish texts into the fold of Reformation scholarship while simultaneously reinforcing the marginalization of Jews. The long-term effects of the Reformation on Jewish communities are also explored, highlighting the increased vulnerability of Jews in Protestant regions and the enduring silence surrounding their experiences in historical narratives. Through a critical examination of historiography and collective memory, this paper challenges the dominant Christian-centric accounts of the Reformation, advocating for the inclusion of Jewish perspectives to provide a more comprehensive understanding of this pivotal period in European history. The study concludes with suggestions for further research, including comparative analyses of Jewish experiences in Reformation cities and the impact of Christian Hebraism on Jewish-Christian relations.