Narrative and History

This textbook explores how historians write the past, combining theory with practice and featuring leading narrative theorists to explain narrative-making choices. It is an ideal resource for undergraduate and postgraduate students studying history and theory, history and method, and historiography.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 182 pages
Publication date: 20 September 2018
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This comprehensive introductory textbook delves into the intricate relationship between reality, reference, and representation, offering a comprehensive exploration of the diverse ways in which historians write the past as history. For the first time, a remarkable gathering of esteemed narrative theorists, including Paul Ricoeur, Hayden White, Frank Ankersmit, Seymour Chatman, and Gérard Genette, has come together to elucidate the narrative-making choices made by all author-historians when crafting historical explanations. By seamlessly blending theory with practice, Alun Munslow pushes the boundaries of the discipline and pioneers a novel role for unconventional historical forms and modes of expression. Presented in a clear yet comprehensive manner, this textbook serves as an invaluable resource for undergraduate and postgraduate students enrolled in courses on history, theory, history and method, and historiography.

Introduction:
In the realm of historical writing, the interplay between reality, reference, and representation plays a pivotal role. This introductory textbook aims to shed light on these interconnected elements and provide a comprehensive framework for understanding how historians write the past as history. By examining the choices made by author-historians in constructing historical narratives, the book seeks to unravel the complex processes involved in shaping historical accounts.
Narrative Theorists:
To accomplish this, the book brings together a diverse range of leading narrative theorists. These scholars, each renowned for their unique perspectives, have contributed significantly to the field of narrative analysis. Among them are Paul Ricoeur, known for his influential work on narrative theory and the construction of meaning; Hayden White, who explored the role of historical representation in shaping historical knowledge; Frank Ankersmit, who delved into the dynamics of historical storytelling; Seymour Chatman, who examined the narrative structures of film and television; and Gérard Genette, who focused on the literary aspects of narrative.
Explaining Historical Explanations:
Through their collective insights, these narrative theorists provide a comprehensive explanation of the narrative-making choices made by author-historians. They explore the various strategies and techniques employed to convey historical information, including the use of storytelling, metaphor, irony, and other rhetorical devices. The book also delves into the ethical considerations and challenges faced by historians in their pursuit of truth and accuracy.
Combining Theory with Practice:
One of the distinguishing features of this textbook is its commitment to combining theory with practice. Alun Munslow, the author, not only presents the theoretical frameworks but also showcases how these theories can be applied in historical analysis. By drawing on a wide range of historical examples and case studies, the book demonstrates the practical implications of narrative-making choices and their impact on the interpretation and understanding of the past.
Expanding the Boundaries of the Discipline:
Through his innovative approach, Alun Munslow seeks to expand the boundaries of the discipline of history. He challenges traditional historiographical conventions and encourages historians to explore new and unconventional forms of historical expression. The book showcases a range of historical forms, including memoirs, diaries, letters, and visual artifacts, that offer alternative perspectives and modes of understanding the past.
Ideal Resource for Students:
This textbook is particularly well-suited for undergraduate and postgraduate students who are interested in history, theory, history and method, and historiography. It provides a solid foundation in narrative theory and historical analysis, equipping students with the tools they need to critically evaluate historical sources and construct their own historical narratives. The clear and comprehensive writing style makes the text accessible to students of all backgrounds and levels of study.
In conclusion, this introductory textbook offers a groundbreaking exploration of the relationship between reality, reference, and representation in historical writing. By bringing together a diverse array of narrative theorists and showcasing their insights, the book provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the narrative-making choices made by author-historians. Through its combination of theory and practice, the book expands the boundaries of the discipline and encourages historians to explore new and unconventional forms of historical expression. Whether you are an undergraduate or postgraduate student, this textbook is an invaluable resource for deepening your understanding of history and its complex narratives.

Weight: 266g
Dimension: 206 x 144 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781352002683
Edition number: 2nd ed. 2019