Lion Feuchtwangers novel "The Jewess of Toledo" draws a vivid picture of the social life, the relevant groups in the society and examples of individual attitude in 12th century Spain. The story gives him the opportunity to raise the questions of distinction, acceptance, tolerance and political power. As well the plot of the novel as the portray of king Alfons VIII., who is historically well documented, make it easy to follow Feuchtwangers intention to understand the ambiguity, tolerance or

more »

... erance of some protagonists and the relevant consequences of their behaviour. Feuchtwanger obviously intended to discuss the various religious and political actions of the protagonists with respect to their social background. He especially illustrates the tenuous position of the jews by distinctly elaborated characters in various roles in his novel about medieval Spain. Certainly the authors personal experience in the first half of the 20th century motivated this focus. This paper analyzes the novel relating to ambiguity and identity and their foundation in the documented historical course of events. The chapter about Américo Castro analyzes the questions of cultural identity. Despite the controversial discussion of his findings he gives credible answers to the identity creation in the spanish nation, especially by stressing the importance of language. The final excursus describing Ibn Hazm al-Andalusi gives insight in the life and work of one of the most interesting scholars, poets and philosophers of the 12th century.