The Spanish Apostates
The Jewish Apostates:
The Enemy Within

Perhaps no phase in the Jewish exile saw as many conversions as Christian-dominated Spain. Pablo Christiani, opponent of the Ramban in the famous forced debate, was a Talmudic scholar who craved the power and prestige of the priesthood. Abraham Señor, financial advisor to Ferdinand and Isabella, converted to keep his wealth and status. Meanwhile, the converso Jews hid themselves in fear of Torquemada, himself a descendant of apostate Jews.

• the end of “the Golden Age” of Spain
• the place of the converso Jews in Jewish society overall
• Spanish assimilation vs. American – how are they similar?
• the Abarbanel, Jewish statesman and hero