I've been reading a book about the life and times of Rashi. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rashi
As a costume geek, I'm thrilled that he goes into so much detail on the mode of women's dress at the time. I'm planning a Rashi era outfit for Purim, and if I can pull it off with some measure of accuracy I may go around to the girls schools and give a class on the history and culture of his time.
Regarding slaves, I found it interesting that it was common for Jews to address their slaves as "Master" and "Mistress", because "He who takes for himself a slave, takes on a master." meaning that a slave becomes his responsibility, above and beyond the owner's own well being. If an owner only has one pillow, he must give it to his slave! By using a formal means of addressing his slaves, it keeps the owner humble, and reminds him that before G-d, we are all slaves and servants to the Almighty.
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As a costume geek, I'm thrilled that he goes into so much detail on the mode of women's dress at the time. I'm planning a Rashi era outfit for Purim, and if I can pull it off with some measure of accuracy I may go around to the girls schools and give a class on the history and culture of his time.
Regarding slaves, I found it interesting that it was common for Jews to address their slaves as "Master" and "Mistress", because "He who takes for himself a slave, takes on a master." meaning that a slave becomes his responsibility, above and beyond the owner's own well being. If an owner only has one pillow, he must give it to his slave! By using a formal means of addressing his slaves, it keeps the owner humble, and reminds him that before G-d, we are all slaves and servants to the Almighty.
Fun stuff!