ABSTRACT
There is graphic evidence of widespread anti-Jewish sentiment throughout Western Europe during the latter part of the twelfth century. Anti-Muslim fervour whipped up during the Crusades (the third and last being in 1189-90) spilled over into hatred of non-Christians in general. And in England, France and Germany the prime recipients of this bigotry were Jews. Thus, for example, laws were passed preventing sexual relationships between Christian and ‘Saracens or Jews’.2 Attitudes in England became more entrenched after the death, in July 1189, of Henry II, dubbed ‘the protector of the Jews’. Jews attending the coronation of his successor, Richard I, were violently attacked.1 In the wake of this upsurge, anti-Jewish rioting broke out in London that same year and subsequently spread throughout the country. Several deaths and numerous injuries were recorded. Particularly violent outbreaks ensued in Norwich, Stamford and Lincoln. Worse was to come in York, where, on 16 March 1190, rioters forced the city’s entire 150-strong Jewish community to take refuge in the wooden keep of the royal castle that stood where Clifford’s
Tower now stands. A baying mob of citizens laid siege to the keep, and the terrified Jews opted for suicide rather than being murdered. The men killed their own wives and children before setting fire to the keep and perishing in the smoke and flames. These shocking events were well documented at the time. Detailed accounts can be found, for example, in the work of William of Newburgh and Roger of Howden, as well as in the Chronicles of the Abbey of Meaux in East Yorkshire.3
