Deconstructing History [Paperback]

Surveying the latest research, this welcome second edition of Alun Munslows successful Deconstructing History provides an excellent introduction to the debates and issues of postmodernist history.

This new edition has been updated and revised and, along with the original discussion material and topics, now:

• assesses the claims of history as a form of truthful explanation
• discusses the limits of conventional historical thinking and practice, and the responses of the new empiricists to the books central arguments
• examines the arrival of experimental history and its implications
• clarifies the utility of addressing Michael Foucault and Hayden White, and strengthens the analysis of Frank R. Ankersmits recent work.

Along with an updated glossary, and a revised bibliography, this second edition will not only live up to its predecessors reputation, but will surpass it as the most essential student resource for studying history and its practice.

1. Introduction  2. The Past in a Changing Present  3. History as Reconstruction/Construction  4. History as Deconstruction  5. What is Wrong with Deconstructionist History?  6. What is Wrong with Reconstructionist/Constructionist History?  7. Michel Foucault and History  8. Hayden White and Deconstructionist History  9. Conclusion