Encounters with the Matrona: A Sourcebook for Rabbinic Narratives

Abstract

This study gathers and analyzes Rabbinic narratives from the Talmud featuring "matrona" or "matronita," Roman noblewomen, to explore Jewish life under Roman rule after 70 CE. These women, denoted by their high social standing, appear in diverse roles: as intellectual partners engaging in theological discussions with rabbis, as temptresses attempting to seduce sages, and as practitioners of mystical arts, sometimes even witchcraft. These interactions provide insight into the complex dynamics between Jewish and Roman communities, revealing that some Roman women were highly educated and demonstrated a keen interest in Jewish philosophy and theology.

Keywords: Talmud, Talmudic Stories, matrona, matronisa, Rabbi Yosi ben Chalafta

JEL Classification: Y80, Z10, Z12