Source 1

‘It should be known that all Jews, in whichever kingdom they may be, ought to be under the guardianship and protection of the liege king; nor can any one of them subject himself to any wealthy person without the license of the king, because the Jews themselves and all their possessions are the king’s. But if someone detains them or their money, the king shall demand [them] as his own property if he wishes and is able.’

‘Prologue’, Laws of Edward the Confessor, c. 1130.

This source dates to around 70 years after the Jews first arrived in England following William the Conqueror’s victory in 1066. The text offers insight into how Jews were viewed in Medieval society: all Jews, we read, benefit from royal protection, and they and their possessions are considered property of the king. 

Questions to consider:

1. How might the Jews’ royal protection have impacted their relations with non-Jewish English citizens?
2. Kings were often absent in the Middle Ages, with wars and crusades. How might this have affected Jews? 
3. What can we infer from the fact that the Jews and their money are considered the king’s property?