Final answer:
The increasing Christian intolerance of Jews in the 13th century was due to religious conformity enforced by state authorities, stereotypes related to economic activities like money-lending, religious campaigns like the Crusades, the Inquisition, and widespread rumors and misconceptions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Causes of Increasing Christian Intolerance of Jews in the 13th Century
The increasing Christian intolerance of Jews in the 13th century is attributed to several factors. The rise of strong state religions and the authority that they wielded allowed for the enforcement of religious conformity. Jews were often viewed as outsiders and were falsely accused of various societal and economic woes, including being blamed for the death of Christ. The stereotypes of Jewish greed were exacerbated due to their association with money-lending, one of the few professions they were permitted to partake in due to Christians being barred from lending at interest.
Moreover, the Crusades played a significant role in heightening tensions. As Christians embarking on the Crusades came into contact with different cultures and religions, Jews were regularly grouped with Muslims and branded as infidels. Such expeditions sometimes resulted in the plundering of Jewish communities and turning them into scapegoats for various crusading failures or frustrations. The Inquisition further contributed to this intolerance by insisting on religious conformity, leading to the expulsion or forced conversion of Jews and Muslims in Spain.
In addition to these institutional challenges, popular misconceptions and prejudices contributed heavily to the climate of intolerance. Rumors and accusations, such as the blood libel myth or the claim that Jews caused the plague by poisoning wells, further fueled anti-Semitism and led to violence, expulsions, and increasing restrictions on Jewish life.