Warning: Undefined variable $num in /home/shroutdo/public_html/courses/wp-content/plugins/single-categories/single_categories.php on line 126
Warning: Undefined variable $posts_num in /home/shroutdo/public_html/courses/wp-content/plugins/single-categories/single_categories.php on line 127
One of the first things that Popkin admits in From Herodotus to H-net: The Story of Historiography is that historiography is difficult. The way that “historiographical analyses…move back and forth among several levels of reference” from “the facts of the past” to “the ways in which those facts can be discerned and written about” but also including “the mental processes of historians” can indeed “make them challenging to follow” (Popkin 5), especially for students that are simply interested in history. And so far, I could not agree more!
Even though we have not yet to really delve into dissecting historiography, just reading about it so far gives me a weird taste of history, something I have never experienced before when I think of the word “history”. Coincidentally, Popkin points this out as well saying “[students] often feel as though they are being asked to say goodbye to all the things that attracted them to the subject in the first place” (Popkin 5). Although it is too early to say that I already hate history, it does make me think about why I chose to switch to history in the first place. Interesting that it is always within the most “difficult” parts in life that you learn more about yourself.
This of course does not mean I have no respect for histiography. It is the subject that makes history even remotely possible and it is imperative that history students do have some form of competency in the subject. Its difficulty is a letdown for many aspiring history students; I can sympathize because I am aspiring history student as well. But for some who see historiography as something they can just skip because it’s too hard, then they certainly should not become a history major. Therefore, I do share a sentiment with terry_christi who states “if you are an individual that would rather view history through romanticized lenses, then maybe historiography doesn’t seem engaging enough for you”.
I know that this subject will be difficult. But I still think that is OK. Because at the end of the day, I will truly know if this is the right path for me.
- Joseph Ngo