Alexandru D. Xenopol and the Development of Romanian Historiography

Alexandru Xenopol's work contributed to a strong sense of national identity among Romania's literate classes, making him a respected figure in nationalistic historiography.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 218 pages
Publication date: 20 March 2018
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Alexandru Xenopol, despite facing criticism from his peers and being overlooked by his successors, played a significant role in elevating Romanian nationalistic historiography to a more respectable level, particularly among the general public. By the time of World War I, a strong sense of national identity had firmly established itself as an intellectually respectable mindset among Romania's educated classes. This book delves into Xenopol's involvement in fostering this mentality in Romania during a period that was pivotal in shaping the country's institutionalized intellectual life and cultivated behavior.

Xenopol's contributions to Romanian historiography were multifaceted. He was a prolific writer, producing numerous books and articles that explored various aspects of Romanian history. His works were widely read and respected, particularly among the educated classes, and helped to shape public opinion on historical matters.

One of Xenopol's most significant contributions was his emphasis on the importance of national identity in shaping Romanian history. He argued that Romania's history was unique and distinct from that of its neighbors, and that its people had a shared cultural heritage that deserved to be celebrated and preserved. Xenopol's writings helped to promote a sense of national pride and unity among Romanians, particularly during times of political and social unrest.

In addition to his emphasis on national identity, Xenopol also played a role in promoting the study of Romanian literature and culture. He was a strong advocate for the use of Romanian language in education and literature, and worked to promote the works of Romanian writers and artists to a wider audience. Xenopol's efforts helped to establish Romanian literature as a respected and significant literary tradition within Europe.

Despite the criticism of his peers and the inattention of his successors, Alexandru Xenopol's contributions to Romanian historiography were significant. His emphasis on national identity, promotion of Romanian literature and culture, and commitment to intellectual respectability helped to shape the country's intellectual life and cultivated behavior. Xenopol's legacy continues to be felt in Romania today, and his works remain a valuable resource for scholars and researchers interested in the history and culture of the region.

Weight: 344g
Dimension: 157 x 233 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138643741