Povijesni prilozi, Vol. 26 No. 33, 2007.
Professional paper
Shaping the medieval reality: sociology of knowledge and history
Tomislav Popić
Abstract
This paper discusses the theoretical concept and practical applications of sociology
of knowledge in the study of medieval history. Sociology of knowledge views the actions
and behaviours of the members of a community as determined by the body of
social knowledge fostered by the ruling elites. These elites try to impose their own
notions of the everyday reality, and their attempts in turn depend on their interests
and on the social circumstances. Consequently, as this essay suggests, we must take
into account the diverse symbols of power and government that these elites successfully
employ in securing their authority and reign within a social community.
Sociology of knowledge, thus, offers a novel approach to the study of Croatian Middle
Ages, hitherto little utilized by Croatian historians. This approach may prove
useful in the study of relationships between ruling structures and their subjects, collective
memory and remembrance, as well as the ways in which these are informed
by the elites.
Keywords
medieval reality; social knowledge; symbols of power; government; collective memory
Hrčak ID:
18752
URI
Publication date:
28.12.2007.
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