Institutional Anti-Judaism: Pope Pius VI and the ''Edict Concerning the Jews'' in the Context of the Inquisition and the Enlightenment

About the Book

Through the kindness of the Central Archives for the History of the Jewish People in Jerusalem, the Editto Sopra Gli Ebrei, issued in 1775 by Pope Pius VI, has been made available. This work includes the text of the entire document, which contains all forty-four statutes in English translation. Images of the document in its original Italian form are provided. The book addresses the historical context and the issue of authority as it relates to the Papacy. Also included is a close reading of each statute along with commentary. The conclusions deal with core questions concerning the relationship of the Papacy to the Jewish community and its consequences. A section in the conclusions contrasts the requirements of the Editto to general principles of the Enlightenment. In addition to the Editto itself, primary sources are quoted throughout the work. A “Key to the Work” is provided as an aid to readers.

About the Author

Nancy Robinson holds a B.A. with a major in Philosophy, and an M.A. in Religious Studies, from the University of Pittsburgh. She has earned a Certificate for study at Yad Vashem, International School for Holocaust Studies in Israel. Preparation for this work included research in Italy and in Israel. Ms. Robinson is included in Who’s Who in America; Who’s Who in American Women, and is a member of the American Academy of Religion. She is a practicing Roman Catholic, active in Jewish/Catholic dialogue. This work is her contribution to Jewish/Catholic dialogue and reconciliation