Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Perspective in History

For this blog assignment, posted by Saturday please, I'd like you to reflect a bit on the readings and discussion on the role of interpretation and perspective in the making of history. I think most of us start in school from the notion that history is about facts and data. Our readings, however, have suggested that facts alone "deprive human existence of all significance," which may be reflected in the disinterest of our audience.
Foner says that all history is contemporary and that history changes. Becker discusses the need to shuffle and select material. Jensen argues that interpretation and meaning is essential. Zinn promotes meaning and relevance in our teaching.

What do you think? Take a few minutes to review the texts. Find a quote [relevant, interesting, troublesome, something you agree with, dont agree with] from the readings as a way to begin a discussion on interpretation and perspective. {some things to consider may be What do you think is the role of interpretation in the making of history? Why? Have your ideas on the nature and function of history change? on the job of historian?} Take care to refer to the texts in your discussion.

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