THE HISTORY OF THE JEWS OF SPAIN AND PORTUGAL

MONDAYS 3:15 PM–4:30 PM Starting October 15 (Eight Weeks)

This course will explore Iberian Jewish history and Sephardic culture.  When and where did Sephardic Jewry emerge? Who were the first to arrive? As Jews were dispersed to other countries following the Expulsion in 1492, Sephardic Jewry flourished and adapted to new surroundings. Key personalities of that era will be reviewed. There has been a recent buzz about the many Crypto-Jews or conversos who are tracing their origins through DNA testing.  These B’nei Anusim, looking back to the generations of Jews who settled and flourished in Spain and Portugal, are rejoining the Jewish fold.

What did they discover compelling them to opt in? Instructor: Marden Paru; $60.