Discourse in the Synagogue: Ramon Llull and His Dialogue with the Jews

In this paper I will attempt to step into Llull's large footsteps by trying to recreate what he might have said when standing in the synagogue in Barcelona 1299, in front of a Jewish audience in order to convince them of the truth of Christianity. While this may seem a hopeless and speculative task, it is a useful exercise because it raises questions about Llull himself, the cultural and intellectual environment he flourished in and his relations with both Jews and Muslims. More importantly, it allows us, some seven hundred years later, to explore our own relationship with this important historical figure, as well as providing a greater measure of freedom of interpretation in suggesting what Llull would have wanted to convey. Additionally, this approach may suggest new lines of investigation and raise different questions and issues regarding Llull that may not have previously been considered.