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University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) *
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Course
289
Subject
History
Date
Dec 6, 2023
Type
docx
Pages
3
Uploaded by CommodoreIbisPerson330
1.
What approaches to historical study does each historian
advocate for?
What produces the best kind of history, according
to Himmelfarb? What produces the best kind of history, according
to Scott?
2.
2.
How does Himmelfarb critique Scott, and vice-versa?
3.
2. Connected to historical approaches is the idea of the direction
of historical narratives, and historical understanding. Some, like
Himmelfarb, argue that there should be a single direction for all
historical research so that every product will aid in our
construction of a master narrative for history, while others, like
Scott, support a more diverse and deconstructed approach to
topics and methods. The critique of Himmelfarb is that her
approach is exclusionary, while the critique of Scott is that her
approach limits a holistic approach.
Do you think that history
should remain holistic even if exclusionary, or is history
better in a deconstructed version that is more
diverse?
Essentially the question is: Do you think that it is better
to have a single, unified vision for history, be it either political or
social history, even if it omits many subjects, or is a broader
coverage of subjects desirable even if the diverse subjects
researched and methods used produces a "fragmented" history,
with no single topic being deemed the "most important"?
HImmelfarb and Sott, represent 2 different approaches to history.
Himmelfarb is more traditional and uniform in historical approach,
striving to be holistic and Inclusive. The Investigates the emergence of
concept and identities as event in need of explainational.
Himmelfarb and Scott represent two distinct schools of thought within historical study.
Himmelfarb leans toward a more traditional, unified approach, emphasizing political history,
institutions, and a cohesive narrative. She values a singular direction in historical research that
contributes to constructing a master narrative for history. On the other hand, Scott aligns with a
more diverse, deconstructed approach, focusing on social and cultural history, highlighting the
voices and experiences of marginalized groups. She argues for a broader coverage of subjects
and methods, recognizing the value of multiple perspectives and fragmented narratives.
Himmelfarb critiques Scott for what she perceives as a fragmentation of history. She contends
that this approach leads to a scattered understanding of the past, lacking a cohesive narrative
that could aid in constructing a unified historical vision. Conversely, Scott criticizes Himmelfarb's
approach as exclusionary, arguing that prioritizing a singular narrative disregards the
experiences and contributions of underrepresented groups, leading to a skewed and incomplete
understanding of history.
The debate between the two revolves around whether history should be approached as a
singular, unified narrative or as a diverse, multifaceted field. Himmelfarb's stance might lead to a
more exclusionary but potentially more structured and cohesive understanding, while Scott's
perspective promotes inclusivity and diversity, even if it results in a fragmented and less unified
historical narrative.
As for my perspective, I see the merit in both approaches. A balance between a cohesive
narrative and diverse perspectives seems ideal. While a unified vision can provide structure and
clarity, incorporating diverse narratives enriches our understanding of the past, capturing a more
comprehensive and inclusive historical account. Striking a balance between these approaches
could potentially yield a more nuanced and holistic view of history, acknowledging both
overarching themes and diverse experiences.
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