Rural Europe as a Challenge for Contemporary History
The historiography of contemporary Europe has predominantly centered around urban and metropolitan experiences. Meanwhile, rural regions, their inhabitants, and village life have often been depicted as hindrances to modernization or as manifestations of backwardness. With the decline of modernization theory’s prominence in contemporary history, the emphasis on urban cultures has only intensified. In this regard, I propose a paradigm shift in our approach to contemporary European history, advocating for a greater focus on rural spaces. By doing so, we can more comprehensively examine the intricate web of transformations, encompassing cultural, technological, economic, spatial, and other dimensions, and explore how local, regional, national, and transnational actors have orchestrated and influenced these profound changes. This shift in perspective necessitates methodological flexibility and a heightened awareness of the multitude of actors and arenas involved in shaping these developments.
Date:
14 November 2023, 17:00 (Tuesday, 6th week, Michaelmas 2023)
Venue:
St Antony's College - North Site
Venue Details:
Seminar Room, European Studies Centre, 70 Woodstock Road, Oxford OX2 6HR
Speaker:
Anette Schlimm (Anette Schlimm (Weizsacker Fellow, St Antony’s College, Oxford))
Organising department:
European Studies Centre
Organiser contact email address:
julie.adams@sant.ox.ac.uk
Host:
Paul Betts (St Antony's College, University of Oxford)
Part of:
ESC Core Seminar Series
Booking required?:
Not required
Audience:
Public
Editor:
Julie Adams
