Edict of Expulsion of the Jews
The Alhambra Decree is being read aloud in the Hall of the Ambassadors, officially ordering the expulsion of all Jews from Spain. The Jewish representatives stand in stunned silence as Ferdinand and I
Setting
The Hall of the Ambassadors within the Alhambra Palace, Granada, Spain. The grand hall is adorned with intricate Islamic geometric designs and calligraphy, remnants of the Nasrid dynasty's rule. High ceilings with muqarnas (honeycomb vaulting) and arched windows filter the afternoon light.
Characters
Ferdinand II of Aragon
primary
A middle-aged man in his early forties, Ferdinand II of Aragon has a commanding presence with a strong, athletic build. His sharp, penetrating eyes are framed by a neatly trimmed beard, and his high forehead gives him an air of authority. His complexion is slightly weathered from years of campaigning.
Isabella I of Castile
primary
Middle-aged woman in her early 40s, with a regal bearing and piercing blue eyes that reflect both resolve and piety. Her fair complexion is framed by auburn hair partially concealed under a fine veil. She stands with the posture of a ruler accustomed to command, her hands clasped firmly in front of her.
Jewish Elder
secondary
A frail and elderly man in his late 60s, with a long white beard and deeply wrinkled face. His sunken eyes reflect wisdom and sorrow, and his slightly hunched posture shows the weight of years.
Royal Scribe
secondary
A middle-aged man with a lean build, his sharp features accentuated by the dim candlelight. His hands, though slightly ink-stained, move with precision across the parchment. His dark hair is neatly trimmed, and his beard is kept short, in the style favored by court officials.
Guard Captain
background
A tall, broad-shouldered man in his late 30s with a weathered face and a neatly trimmed beard. His piercing eyes scan the room with military precision, and his muscular build suggests years of rigorous training. A faint scar runs along his left cheekbone, a testament to past battles.
Jewish Woman
background
A young woman in her late twenties, with a slender build and dark, curly hair partially covered by a simple headscarf. Her eyes are wide with fear and sorrow, her cheeks wet with silent tears. She clutches her young child tightly against her chest, her knuckles white from the intensity of her grip.
Dialog
Ferdinand II of Aragon
By the authority vested in us by God and the Crown, all Jews within our realms are commanded to depart by the last day of July.
Jewish Elder
Your Majesties... where shall we go? Our families have lived upon this land for centuries...
Isabella I of Castile
It is for the purity of our holy faith. The Lord guides our actions, and thus, so must we guide our kingdom.
Ferdinand II of Aragon
No further discussion shall be entertained. Those who remain beyond the appointed time shall face the full penalty of the law.
Jewish Elder
Baruch atah Adonai... How can this be justice?