Information on Jews and converts from Perpignan in Cervera’s notarial records (1361-1484)

Abstract

This paper looks at 14 documents - 10 of which are transcribed in full, along with part of another - which provide information on Jews and converts from the city of Perpignan. Dated from between 1361 and 1484, the texts refer to the acknowledgement of a debt; the appointment of a proxy to deal with a matter concerning gifts related to a marriage; the acknowledgement of a payment stemming from a marriage; the purchase of a seat in a new school in Cervera; some tasks undertaken; a convert’s apprenticeship as a tailor; a Jew’s involvement in the administration of a family’s assets; a Jew’s business affairs; a promise made by a convert; a convert’s acknowledgement of receipt of a deposit; the employment of a maid; and an inventory of possessions, including a number of books. All the aforementioned Jews and converts came from Perpignan and had established relationships with inhabitants of Cervera.

Keywords: Jews, converts, notarial records, Perpignan, Cervera, Catalonia, Middle

Ages