New medievalism

Definition

New medievalism refers to a contemporary scholarly and cultural movement that reinterprets the medieval period, emphasizing its complexities and the ways it informs modern society. This perspective challenges traditional views of the Middle Ages as a stagnant or dark time, instead highlighting its dynamism, diversity, and relevance to contemporary issues such as nationalism, identity, and social structure.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. New medievalism emerged in the late 20th century as historians and scholars began to reassess the significance of the medieval period in shaping modern culture.
2. This perspective often highlights the interconnectedness between medieval societies and contemporary issues, such as governance, community identity, and social hierarchies.
3. New medievalism has influenced literature, art, and popular culture, leading to a resurgence of interest in medieval themes within modern narratives.
4. Scholars associated with new medievalism often critique previous historiographical approaches that portrayed the Middle Ages as merely a 'dark age' preceding the Renaissance.
5. The movement encourages interdisciplinary research, drawing insights from sociology, anthropology, and cultural studies to better understand the legacy of the medieval period.

Review Questions

• How does new medievalism challenge traditional perceptions of the Middle Ages?
  • New medievalism challenges traditional perceptions by rejecting the notion of the Middle Ages as a stagnant or solely 'dark' period. Instead, it promotes a view of this era as dynamic and complex, emphasizing its contributions to modern societal structures and cultural practices. Scholars within this movement highlight various aspects of medieval life, including social diversity and interregional connections that have lasting impacts on contemporary society.
• In what ways has new medievalism influenced modern literature and popular culture?
  • New medievalism has significantly influenced modern literature and popular culture by reinvigorating interest in medieval themes and narratives. Works of fantasy literature, such as those seen in novels and films inspired by Arthurian legends or epic quests, reflect elements of this revival. Additionally, video games often draw on medieval settings and mythologies, showcasing how contemporary creators reinterpret historical ideas through a modern lens.
• Evaluate the impact of new medievalism on historiographical debates about the Middle Ages in relation to contemporary societal issues.
  • New medievalism has had a profound impact on historiographical debates regarding the Middle Ages by framing it within the context of contemporary societal issues. By linking historical analysis with current topics like nationalism, identity politics, and social hierarchy, this movement encourages historians to reconsider how medieval societies inform modern contexts. The resulting discussions foster a more nuanced understanding of history that recognizes its relevance today, prompting scholars to explore continuities and changes between past and present.

Related terms

Medievalism: The artistic and intellectual revival of medieval themes and aesthetics in later periods, often reflecting contemporary values or issues.

Postmodernism: A broad cultural movement that emerged in the mid-20th century, characterized by skepticism towards grand narratives and an emphasis on relativism, which can influence the interpretation of historical periods including the Middle Ages.

Historiography:

The study of historical writing and methods, including how historians interpret past events and periods like the Middle Ages.