Mirror of the Medieval: An Anthropology of the Western Historical Imagination

The myth of the "Middle Ages" has been used to reflect modernity, and this book explores how political and intellectual projects have appropriated it for their own ends. It is based on contemporary struggles over power and identity in the Eastern Alps and considers the broader implications for scholarly research and public memory.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 208 pages
\n Publication date: 02 September 2020
\n Publisher: Berghahn Books
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The myth of the "Middle Ages" has held a unique and significant place in the Western historical imagination since its inception by Renaissance humanists. Whether perceived as an era of lost simplicity or a barbaric nightmare, the medieval past has always served as a mirror for modernity. This captivating book delves into the diverse ways in which various political and intellectual projects, ranging from nationalism to the discipline of anthropology, have appropriated the Middle Ages for their own purposes. Author K. Patrick Fazioli employs an interdisciplinary approach, grounding his analysis in contemporary power struggles and identity issues in the Eastern Alps while also exploring the broader implications for scholarly research and public memory.

The concept of the "Middle Ages" has been subject to extensive interpretation and reimagining throughout history. It has been variously portrayed as a period of intellectual stagnation, religious fervor, and social upheaval. While some scholars argue that the Middle Ages were a time of great cultural and scientific achievements, others suggest that it was a period of darkness and backwardness.

One of the most significant ways in which the Middle Ages has been appropriated is through the lens of nationalism. Nationalists have often sought to define their countries and cultures in opposition to the perceived decadence and backwardness of the Middle Ages. They have used the medieval past to construct a narrative of national identity and pride, highlighting the virtues of traditional values and customs.

Another example of the appropriation of the Middle Ages is in the field of anthropology. Anthropologists have used the Middle Ages as a source of inspiration for their studies of culture and society. They have studied the social structures, religious practices, and economic systems of medieval societies to better understand the origins and development of modern societies.

The Middle Ages has also been appropriated in the realm of literature and art. Writers and artists have drawn on the medieval past to create works that explore themes of power, religion, and morality. For example, the works of J.R.R. Tolkien, George R.R. Martin, and William Shakespeare have all been influenced by the medieval world.

However, the appropriation of the Middle Ages has also been met with criticism. Some scholars argue that it is ahistorical and perpetuates stereotypes and misconceptions about the past. They argue that the Middle Ages were not a time of simplicity and barbarism, but rather a complex and diverse period of history with its own unique set of challenges and achievements.

In conclusion, the myth of the "Middle Ages" has played a significant role in the Western historical imagination. It has been appropriated by various political and intellectual projects, ranging from nationalism to anthropology, for their own purposes. While the medieval past has been used to construct narratives of national identity and pride, it has also been criticized for perpetuating stereotypes and misconceptions about the past. It is important to approach the study of the Middle Ages with a critical and nuanced mindset, recognizing its complexity and diversity.

\n Weight: 314g\n
Dimension: 153 x 228 x 16 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781789208306\n \n