There are many stories we can tell about the past; and we are not; perhaps; as free as we might imagine in our choice of which stories to tell; or where those stories end. John Arnold's addition to Oxford's popular Very Short Introductions series is a stimulating essay about how people study and understand history. The book begins by inviting us to think about various questions provoked by our investigation of history; and then explores the ways in which these questions have been answered in the past. Such key concepts as causation; interpretation; and periodization are introduced by way of concrete examples of how historians work; thus giving the reader a sense of the excitement implicit in discovering the past--and ourselves.The aim throughout History: A Very Short Introduction is to discuss theories of history in a general; pithy; and accessible manner; rather than delve into specific periods. This is a book that will appeal to all students and general readers with an interest in history or historiography.About the Series:Oxford's Very Short Introductions series offers concise and original introductions to a wide range of subjects--from Islam to Sociology; Politics to Classics; Literary Theory to History; and Archaeology to the Bible. Not simply a textbook of definitions; each volume in this series provides trenchant and provocative--yet always balanced and complete--discussions of the central issues in a given discipline or field. Every Very Short Introduction gives a readable evolution of the subject in question; demonstrating how the subject has developed and how it has influenced society. Eventually; the series will encompass every major academic discipline; offering all students an accessible and abundant reference library. Whatever the area of study that one deems important or appealing; whatever the topic that fascinates the general reader; the Very Short Introductions series has a handy and affordable guide that will likely prove indispensable.
#55497 in Books John H Arnold 2000-06-15Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 4.40 x .60 x 6.90l; .26 #File Name: 019285352X136 pagesHistory A Very Short Introduction
Review
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. "The past itself is not a narrative"By Darwin8u"The past itself is not a narrative. In its entirety; it is chaotic; uncoordinated; and complex as life. History is about making sense of that mess; finding or creating patterns and meanings and stories from the maelstrom." -- John H. Arnold; HistorydescriptionA friend on Facebook introduced me to this series a couple weeks ago. I usually steer towards larger books (Diary of Samuel Pepys; The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire; etc.). I like to submerge in a book; so I was initially skeptical of this format. These are short books; almost novella size (although the font being 8 or 9 point might allow Oxford's editors to squeeze a bit more in). These are books not meant for the expert; but the enthusiast. They are; as Oxford titled them; VERY SHORT INTRODUCTIONS. Perfect. There is an art to writing tight. To cutting your story; your explanation; your introduction into the fewest words possible. Things are not included; left out; obviously; but like haikus there is beauty in scarcity and there is a definite place for these books in my library. I've only finished one (This one); but I'm addicted.I loved Arnold's voice; his take; and his approach. I think he managed to engage; explain; synthesize the history of history; and did ALL of that in just under 124 pages.I just ordered World War II: A Very Short Introduction (for my son) and The American Revolution: A Very Short Introduction (for my daughter). I expect I will be buying more very shortly.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Excellent overview of historiographyBy Brian ColellaA really excellent overview of historiography and the reasons for studying or creating history; and the ways those reasons have changed and evolved to suit the needs of the society in which a history is being produced. This year I embarked on a project to read 100 books that cover the history of the world; and this was book 1 in my project and was the perfect introduction to get my brain thinking critically and studiously as I proceed through the rest of my list.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. An important book for allBy CustomerI've read a few other books of the Oxford series and this is by far the best. Such a vital topic for all literate people deserves a convincing and well-written introduction such as this.
