This book is a study of the relatively unknown field of Baltic linguistic historiography associated with the 16th century. This has been the saeculum mirabile of Baltic philology, not only on account of the first books having appeared during that period, but also due to the diverse linguistic ideas about the Baltic languages which were circulating during Renaissance Palaeocomparativism: the Slavic and the closely connected Illyrian theory, the Latin theory (with its variants: the semi-Latin, the neo-Latin, and the Wallachian), also the Quadripartite theory. Minor but significant linguistic ideas are also discussed here, for example the emergence of a Hebrew theory and the Greek theory about Old Prussian. The synoptic juxtaposition of the different ideas shows very well the state of knowledge in Europe about the languages which later would be called ‘Baltic’ and the modernity of those ideas within European Renaissance linguistic debate leading to the rise of comparative linguistic genealogy. Pietro U. Dini is Associate Professor of Baltic Philology and General Linguistics at the University of Pisa. He has been an Alexander von Humboldt-Stiftung W. Bessel-Forschungspreisträger at the University of Göttingen, Professor at Oslo University and Doctor h.c. of the University of Vilnius. He is a member of the Academy of Sciences of Latvia, of Lithuania, and of Göttingen. His book Le lingue baltiche (1997) has been translated into Lithuanian, Latvian, Russian and English.
The Old Prussian language has always puzzled linguists. While other Baltic languages, such as Lithuanian and Latvian, have remained in use to the present day, Old Prussian was extinguished at the beginning of eighteenth century, and the extant Old Prussian linguistic corpus is quite limited in scope. Drawing on two bilingual vocabularies and three Lutheran Catechisms (as well as onomastic evidence and several other minor texts), this work critically explores the linguistic and historiographical contours of Old Prussian.
This book presents the most comprehensive coverage of the field of Indo-European Linguistics in a century, focusing on the entire Indo-European family and treating each major branch and most minor languages. The collaborative work of 120 scholars from 22 countries, Handbook of Comparative and Historical Indo-European Linguistics combines the exhaustive coverage of an encyclopedia with the in-depth treatment of individual monographic studies.
This study is based on the primary assumption that literature and racial theories have a peculiar, if not unique, interplay, offering an in-depth exploration of the very specific way in which literature and conceptions dealing with race interact. Recent scholarship has started to examine this relationship, although either with a general focus on a specific literary tradition or period, or belong more to historiography than to an aesthetic analysis. This volume, on the other hand, presents recent and stimulating scholarship extending from the eighteenth century into the twentieth. Furthermore, the literary traditions explored here differ from a geographical and cultural point of view (encompassing French, British, German, and French-Lithuanian literatures), but also from the perspective of their genre (namely, prose fiction, poetry, ethnographic literature, and essays). Among others, the reader will find reflections on authors such as Bataille, Schlegel, Coleridge, Oscar V. de L. Milosz, Kafka, Kleist, Voltaire and Buffon.
Medieval East Central Europe in a Comparative Perspective draws together the new perspectives concerning the relevance of East Central Europe for current historiography by placing the region in various comparative contexts. The chapters compare conditions within East Central Europe, as well as between East Central Europe, the rest of the continent, and beyond. Including 15 original chapters from an interdisciplinary team of contributors, this collection begins by posing the question: "What is East Central Europe?" with three specialists offering different interpretations and presenting new conclusions. The book is then grouped into five parts which examine political practice, religion, urban experience, and art and literature. The contributors question and explain the reasons for similarities and differences in governance and strategies for handling allies, enemies or subjects in particular ways. They point out themes and structures from town planning to religious orders that did not function according to political boundaries, and for which the inclusion of East Central European territories was systemic. The volume offers a new interpretation of medieval East Central Europe, beyond its traditional limits in space and time and beyond the established conceptual schemes. It will be essential reading for students and scholars of medieval East Central Europe.
Post-Soviet Latvia and post-apartheid South Africa are far apart geographically and yet have endured a similar history of colonial and authoritarian rule before transitioning to democracy at the end of the 20th century. This book examines these two nations in an unusual comparative study of post-authoritarian efforts to decolonize production and trade. The book combines an analysis of political economy and ecocultural heritage to unpack alternative trade formations. It also connects world systems thinking with Indigenous knowledge to articulate a decolonial theory of development and change over the longue durée. Conclusions and insights drawn are timely and important for a planet confronted by crises such as authoritarianism, laissez-faire capitalism, climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic.
First Published in 1972, Prelude to Modern Europe provides a political narrative, the social and economic background of events in Europe from 1815- 1914. Woodward's own deep sense for social values and the quality of life emerges conspicuously in his long introductory chapter on European civilization. This is followed by chapters on the major powers, France, Germany, Russia, Italy and the Habsburg Empire. Finally, there is an epilogue describing and discussing the breakdown of the ‘great power’ system. Throughout the book, the author deploys all his unrivalled skills in historical and philosophical commentary, and the result is a tour de force of equal merit with his one volume History of England. This is a must read for scholars and researchers of European history, modern history, and history in general.
Embark on a transformative journey to the enchanting Baltic gem with "Estonia Unveiled: A Step-by-Step Guide to Relocating" by William Jones. This comprehensive guide is your passport to a seamless relocation to Estonia, providing a wealth of insights, practical advice, and cultural immersion for those seeking to make this captivating country their new home. Your Estonian Adventure Begins: Delve into the heart of Estonia with author William Jones as your trusted companion. From the cobblestone streets of Tallinn to the pristine landscapes of Saaremaa, this guide unveils the beauty of Estonia, offering a vivid tapestry of cultural richness and natural wonders awaiting your exploration. Decoding the Estonian Lifestyle: In the opening chapters, "Estonia Unveiled" guides you through the decision-making process of moving to Estonia. Jones takes you on a deep dive into the Estonian way of life, unraveling the cultural nuances that will shape your experience and fostering a profound connection with your new surroundings. Navigating the Administrative Maze: Tackling bureaucratic challenges can be daunting, but fear not. With Jones as your navigator, you'll effortlessly traverse the intricacies of the visa process, making administrative hurdles feel like mere stepping stones on your journey to residency in Estonia. Finding Your Nook: Discover the art of securing accommodation in Estonia, whether it's a cozy apartment in the heart of the Old Town or a countryside retreat. "Estonia Unveiled" transforms the search for a home into an exciting adventure, ensuring you settle into a space that feels uniquely yours. Language, Employment, and Financial Wisdom: Learn the melodic tones of the Estonian language and embrace it as a bridge to deeper connections. Jones guides you through the Estonian job market, helping you craft your professional path with resilience and adaptability. Financial planning becomes an art as you compose stability in your new life. Embracing the Seasons and Environmental Harmony: "Estonia Unveiled" invites you to harmonize with Estonia's ever-changing seasons, from the blossoms of spring to the enchantment of winter wonder. Jones also sheds light on how you can become a custodian of Estonia's pristine landscapes, participating in sustainable practices and environmental initiatives. Reflections and Ongoing Melody: As your journey unfolds, Jones encourages reflection on the symphony of experiences, friendships formed, and personal growth achieved. This guide becomes not just a resource but a companion, offering wisdom and insights as you continue your ongoing melody in Estonia. Your Trustworthy Guide, William Jones: A seasoned traveler and expatriate, William Jones infuses "Estonia Unveiled" with a blend of practical advice, cultural anecdotes, and a genuine passion for Estonia. With his guidance, your relocation to Estonia transcends the ordinary, becoming a tapestry of discovery, connection, and harmonious living. Whether you're captivated by Estonia's medieval charm, intrigued by its cutting-edge technology, or drawn to the serenity of its natural landscapes, "Estonia Unveiled" is your indispensable companion for a successful and enriching relocation. Let the adventure begin!
Offers a rare insight into the closed world of medieval Eastern Europe and opens up a neglected archaeological tradition to English-speaking readers. Sections focus on early European ethnic formations and states, the demography of medieval populations and the nature of rural settlement and urban development. The book challenges the intellectual assumptions of medieval archaeology and questions its relationship to history and prehistory. It exposes the limitations of a strictly empirical approach to studying the period when written history began and the early medieval states emerged.
This book presents a unique analysis of the learning derived from East-West contacts in social work and reflects on the discipline's inalienable trans-national dimensions, of high actuality in the face of the re-emergence of nationalisms. The fundamental transformations in Europe subsequent to the revolutions of 1989 had a profound impact on social work in terms of raising sharply the profession’s relationship with politics. The exchanges between western schools of social work and the emergent academic partner institutions in former Communist countries formed a valuable testing ground for the essential principles and competences of social work in terms of their universal scientific basis on the one hand and their regard for cultural and national values and contexts on the other. The chapters in this contributed volume focus on lessons derived from fundamental social and political transformations, highlighted by East-West encounters and intra-national divisions, and thereby have important messages for mastering impending transformations in the light of the global COVID-19 health crisis. They demonstrate how cultural and social divisions can be addressed constructively with direct implications for training and practice in dramatically changing contexts: Lithuanian social work’s claim to professional autonomy vs. authoritarianism in popular and political culture Social work between civil society and the state – lessons for and from Hungary in a European context When Europe’s East, West, North and South meet: learning from cross-country collaboration in creating an international social work master programme Nordic-Baltic cooperation in social work researcher education: A Finnish perspective on the impact on scientific, historical and linguistic similarities and differences Intra-national similarities and differences in social work and their significance for developing European dimensions of research and education Social work, political conflict and European society: reflections from Northern Ireland European Social Work After 1989: East-West Exchanges Between Universal Principles and Cultural Sensitivity is an invaluable resource for social work educators; social work practitioners confronted with national and international divisions; students of social work, of social administration and policy; and any policy researcher with a comparative focus.
