Marc Bloch The Historian's Craft Summary
Introduction
Marc Bloch was a prominent French historian who lived from 1886 to 1944. He was a professor of medieval history at the University of Strasbourg and wrote many influential works on the subject. One of his most famous books is "The Historian's Craft," which is a guide for historians on how to write history.
The Purpose of History
Bloch believed that the purpose of history was not only to describe past events but also to understand them. He believed that history should be more than just a chronicle of events; it should be an analysis of the causes and effects of those events. He argued that history should help us understand the present by studying the past.
Historical Method
Bloch believed that historical research should be based on primary sources. He argued that historians should not rely on secondary sources or hearsay but should go directly to the source material. He also believed that history should be studied from multiple perspectives and that historians should be open to different interpretations of the same events.
Historical Narrative
Bloch believed that history should be written in a narrative style. He argued that storytelling was an important part of history and that historians should strive to make their work engaging and accessible to readers. He believed that history should be written in a way that captures the imagination of the reader and makes them feel like they are part of the story.
Objectivity in History
Bloch believed that historians should strive for objectivity in their work. He argued that historians should be impartial and unbiased in their interpretation of historical events. He believed that history should be based on facts, not on personal opinions or biases.
Conclusion
Marc Bloch's "The Historian's Craft" is an important work that has influenced generations of historians. His emphasis on the importance of primary sources, multiple perspectives, narrative style, and objectivity has helped shape the way we study and write history today. It is a valuable guide for anyone who wants to understand how to write history and appreciate the complexities of the past.