Warriors or Merchants? The Exile of the Ten Tribes in Early Modern Global Contexts

In the sixteenth century, the exile of the legendary Ten Tribes in remote parts of the world was vividly discussed by both Jews and Christians. While research has focused on the messianic expectations associated with the Ten Tribes, this lecture will trace their intriguing transformation from fierce warriors into worldly merchants. Rather than leading a return to the ancestral land, could the Ten Tribes justify new hopes for security, prosperity and staying power in exile?

Andrea Schatz is a Reader in Jewish Studies at King’s College London. She is particularly interested in early modern Jewish interpretations of exilic time, geography and history.

Tuesday, 18 February, 2:10pm, Room C240, Celetná 20.

On the same day at 5:30 PM in room 240, Dr. Schatz will be the guest of the Hebrew Palaeography Seminar and will join us in reading excerpts from David Reubeni’s diary. All are welcome to attend!