Medieval Eastern Europe, 500-1300: A Reader

Medieval Eastern Europe is a collection of primary sources in English translation covering the history of the eastern region of the European continent between 500 and 1300, organized chronologically into thematic chapters. It includes traditional narrative sources, treaties, charters, letters, and legal texts, with each source preceded by a brief introduction and followed by guiding questions.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 392 pages
Publication date: 23 February 2024
Publisher: University of Toronto Press

Medieval Eastern Europe is a groundbreaking collection of primary sources in English translation that fills a significant gap in medieval studies. Spanning the history of the entire eastern region of the European continent between 500 and 1300, this comprehensive volume is authored by renowned scholar Florin Curta, who has dedicated his expertise to the study of medieval Eastern Europe.

Curta's collection encompasses a vast geographic area, stretching from the Czech lands in the west to the Ural Mountains in the east, and from northern Russia to Greece. He has scoured a wide range of sources, including chronicles, annals, treaties, charters, letters, and legal texts, to provide a comprehensive account of this understudied region.

In the introductory chapter, Curta delves into the reasons behind the relative neglect of medieval Eastern Europe in historical scholarship. He argues that the region has been overlooked due to its geographical location, political fragmentation, and the dominance of Western European narratives. However, his collection aims to rectify this imbalance and offer a fresh perspective on the rich and complex history of this region.

The primary sources included in Medieval Eastern Europe are preceded by concise introductions that provide context and background information. Each source is followed by a series of guiding questions that encourage readers to engage with the material critically and explore its significance in understanding medieval Eastern Europe.

The selections are organized chronologically into thematic chapters, allowing for a seamless exploration of various topics. These chapters cover a wide range of subjects, including political developments, religious conversions, economic and social issues, literature, laws, religious beliefs and practices, and much more. The rich tapestry of primary sources allows readers to gain a deep understanding of the social, cultural, and political dynamics of medieval Eastern Europe, shedding light on the complex interactions between different cultures, religions, and political systems.

Medieval Eastern Europe is a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in exploring the rich history of this region. By presenting a diverse range of primary sources in English translation, Curta has made it accessible to a broader audience, fostering a deeper understanding of medieval Eastern Europe and its place in the broader historical narrative.

In conclusion, Medieval Eastern Europe is a groundbreaking collection of primary sources that fills a significant gap in medieval studies. Authored by Florin Curta, a leading scholar in the field, this volume offers a comprehensive and accessible account of the history of the entire eastern region of the European continent between 500 and 1300. Through its diverse range of sources and thematic chapters, it provides a rich and nuanced understanding of medieval Eastern Europe, shedding light on its complex social, cultural, and political dynamics. This collection is a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in exploring the rich history of this region.

Weight: 576g
Dimension: 151 x 229 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781487544904