History and Identity

This introduction to contemporary historical theory and practice explores how issues of identity have shaped how we write history, highlighting key trends such as postmodernism, poststructuralism, constructivism, narrativism, and the linguistic turn. It covers traditional and recent fields, including gender history, historical anthropology, memory, visual history, material culture, and comparative, transnational, and global history.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 270 pages
Publication date: 20 January 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This comprehensive introduction to contemporary historical theory and practice delves into the profound influence of identity on the craft of historical writing. Stefan Berger explores the transformative impact of a heightened self-awareness within the historical profession, highlighting the crucial role played by historians in shaping our understanding of the past and its relevance to the present. He introduces key trends in historical theory, including postmodernism, poststructuralism, constructivism, narrativism, and the linguistic turn, shedding light on their profound influence on the way present.

Over the past four decades, these theoretical frameworks have revolutionized the way historians approach their craft, leading to a reevaluation of historical narratives and a broader exploration of diverse topics. The book encompasses a wide range of historical genres, from traditional fields such as political, social, economic, labor, and cultural history to emerging areas such as gender history, historical anthropology, the history of memory, visual history, the history of material culture, and comparative, transnational, and global history.

Through meticulous research and insightful analysis, Berger demonstrates how these trends have shaped the way historians interpret and present historical events, challenging traditional narratives and promoting a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of the past. This introduction serves as a valuable resource for students, scholars, and anyone interested in exploring the complex interplay between identity, historical theory, and practice.

Weight: 718g
Dimension: 210 x 257 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781107648845
Edition number: New ed