On `What is History?' provides a student introduction to contemporary historiographical debates.
Carr and Elton are still the starting point for the vast majority of introductory courses on the nature of history. Building on his highly successful Rethinking History, Keith Jenkins explores in greater detail the influence of these key figures. He argues that historians need to move beyond their `modernist' thinking and embrace the postmodern-type approaches of thinkers such as Richard Rorty and Hayden White.
Through its radical critique of Carr and Elton and its championing of Rorty and White, On `What is History'? represents a significant development for introductory studies on the nature of history.

Reviews

'An extremely stimulating sequel to Rethinking History. It is a vital contribution to a fundamental debate' - Ian Davies, The Historical Association

'As with his earlier book IRethinking History, Jenkins has produced an accessibly written, confessed polemic, aimed at students but essential for historians of all ages. On What is History? usefully summarises a range of critical arguments, and demonstrates that much of the suspicion over poststructualism has rested on misreadings and misrepresentations of such theorists as Michel Foucault and Jacques Derrida.' -

Book Information
ISBN 9780415097253
Author Keith Jenkins
Format Paperback
Page Count 212
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 294g