In chapter 3, Miri Rubin describes a series of late medieval historical incidents in which Jews were accused of stealing or receiving hosts (the consecrated wafers of Holy Communion) and abusing them.

In chapter 3, Miri Rubin describes a series of late medieval historical incidents in which Jews were accused of stealing or receiving hosts (the consecrated wafers of Holy Communion) and abusing them. Typically, the hosts display their miraculous powers, leading to their recovery by Christians and the punishment of the Jews. The “rescued” host is preserved and enshrined as an object of worship. Answer ONE of the following questions:

1) What do these episodes reveal about why Christians were so hostile to and fearful of the Jews?

2) Describe and explain one or two differences between two of these episodes. That could include, for example, what Jews were accused of, how the accusations were investigated or “proven”, or what punishments followed.

3) If you “read between the lines”, what do these stories reveal about the everyday relationships and contacts between medieval Christians and Jews? Please make specific references to assigned readings.