Few historians now maintain that they write thetruth about the past. Deconstructive readings of history and sources have changed the entire discipline of history. In Deconstructing History, Alun Munslow examines history in the postmodern age. He provides an introduction to the debates and issues of postmodernist history. He also surveys the latest research into the relationship between the past, history, and historical practice, as well as forwarding his own challenging theories.
The author discusses issues of both empiricist and deconstructionist positions and considers the arguments of major proponents of both stances. He includes:
* an examination of the character of historical evidence
* exploration of the role of historians
* discussion of the limits of traditional historical methods
* chapters on Michel Foucault and Hayden White
* an evaluation of the importance of historical narrative
* an extensive and helpful glossary of difficult key terms.
Munslow maps the philosophical field, outlines the controversies involved and assesses the merits of the deconstructionist position. He argues that instead of beginning with the past, history must begin with its representation by historians.