Pro tempore, No. 20, 2025.
Review article
Between Myth and History: The Carantanian Legacy – (Mis)uses of the Carantanian Myth in Slovene Historiography
Matej Vodopivec
Tamara Logar
Abstract
This paper explores the (mis)uses of the Carantanian myth in Slovene historiography as a key element in the construction of Slovene national identity. It offers a critical and systematic analysis of early Slovene historiography. Since the Carantanian myth, rooted in Johann Gottfried Herder’s (1744–1803) ideas on language, culture, and nationhood, gained particular prominence during the period of Romantic nationalism in the nineteenth century, special attention is given to the work of historian and playwright Anton Tomaž Linhart (1756–1795), as well as to that of two historians: Franc Kos (1853–1924) and his son Milko Kos (1892–1972). Their editions, translations, and interpretations of medieval sources played a crucial role in shaping twentieth- century Slovene historical thought. The paper then contrasts their interpretations with those of contemporary historians who have deconstructed the myth. Through a selection of case studies, it illustrates how the Carantanian myth continues to influence Slovene political and religious iconography, above all because of its long-standing entrenchment in national historical narratives. The paper concludes by reflecting on the broader challenges of interpreting medieval sources beyond nationalist frameworks and aims to foster further scholarly engagement with the complex interplay between myth, history, and national identity.
Keywords
Carantania; Carantanian myth; Anton Tomaž Linhart; Franc Kos; Milko Kos; Slovene historiography; political iconography
Hrčak ID:
349379
URI
Publication date:
20.9.2025.
Visits: 0 *