Multifaceted History -- Academic Frontiers (New Edition)

Author: (American) Kelly, translated by Chen Heng, Song Lihong
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Features: Donald R. Kelly is one of the most important intellectual historians of the contemporary era. This book organizes and evaluates the historical thought and historical writings of the West from the pre-classical period to the late 18th century, examining in detail the numerous themes and methodologies that persist throughout. The topics covered include mythology, origins of nations, chronology, linguistic style, documentary forms, rhetoric, translation, historical methodology and historical criticism, theories and practices of interpretation, cultural studies, philosophy of history, and "historicism." Kelly begins by analyzing Herodotus and Thucydides, who, as the founders of Greek historiography, established a dual tradition: the former's model involves the pursuit of culture and antiquities, contrasting sharply with the latter's focus on contemporary political narration and analytical discourse. He then explores the various developments derived from this theme, covering the ancient periods of Greece, Rome, Judaism, and Christianity, medieval chronicles, and ultimately extending to the rise of Enlightenment historiography in the 17th and 18th centuries. "This book passionately and eruditely discusses a genuine and significant theme, offering a novel and profound overview of the Western historiographical tradition. It is a meticulously crafted academic masterpiece."