Paradigms and Methods in Early Medieval Studies

The articles in this volume, by scholars all pursuing careers in the United States, concern the theoretical approaches and methods of early medieval studies. Most of the issues examined span the period from roughly 400 to 1000 CE and regions stretching from westernmost Eurasia to the Black Sea and the Baltic. This is the first volume of essays explicitly to reassess the heuristic structures and methodologies of research on "early medieval Europe." Because of its geographic, chronological, thematic, and methodological diversity and scope, the collection also showcases the breadth of early medieval studies currently practiced in the United States.

"The traditional grand narratives of early medieval European history have failed, throwing down an immense challenge to the current generation of scholars. The authors of this volume invite us to participate in a minute and careful re-examination of evidence, both textual and material, from the early middle ages, in essence tracking the first steps in rebuilding a new and more compelling narrative of the period." - Thomas Head, Hunter College and The Graduate Center, City University of New York

"This is an exemplary work. If you seek proof, and there are some who do, that early medieval history is alive and thriving in the USA, look no further. These current practitioners and skillful interdisciplinarians are self-reflexive on paradigms, methods, and periodization, and aim to inspire colleagues and students in and far beyond America to rethink the early medieval past. Collective success seems guaranteed - with implications that matter for the present and, come what will, the future." - Janet L. Nelson, King s College London

"Highlighting the contributions of North American medievalists, this volume offers a fresh look at the Early Middle Ages, indicating the ways in which new methodologies, concerns with gender, and novel interpretive strategies are transforming the basic paradigms that earlier governed our understanding of the period. The essays collected here cover a wide range of topics, from politics to archeological artifacts, from baptismal rituals to the interpretation of manuscript illuminations, patrilineal genealogies, ethnogenesis and Carolingian fiscal administration as well as the period s real and imagined relationship to the legacy of Rome. It will be essential reading for all scholars interested in early medieval history." - Gabrielle M. Spiegel, Johns Hopkins University.

"These well-presented arguments use new specialities and new methods... Summing up: Recommend. Upper-division graduates and above." - Choice

"Chazelle and Lifshitz have organized papers around the theme that there are US scholars working in the early mideval period (c. 400-1000 CE) who find that there is still general misconception about the poltical, economic, artistic, and cultural achievments of the time. Each of the authors, using evidence from his or her research, questions previously held interpretations and offers a revised explaination." - Choice

CELIA CHAZELLE teaches at the College of New Jersey, USA.

FELICE LIFSHITZ teaches at Florida International University, USA.