An End to Myths and Stereotypes? Concerning Problems, new Works and Interpretations in Czech Ecclesiastical History after 1989
| Authors | |
|---|---|
| Year of publication | 2010 |
| Type | Article in Periodical |
| Magazine / Source | Sborník prací Pedagogické fakulty Masarykovy univerzity, řada společenských věd |
| MU Faculty or unit | |
| Citation | |
| Field | History |
| Keywords | ecclesiastical history Christianity myths stereotypes history at school |
| Description | This analytical and research artical is dealing with research in the field of church history which could recommence in full and freely after November 1989. In an attempt to rectify and make up for the wrongs committed against the church (against the Catholic church in particular) during the period of totalitarian rule, at first many enthusiasts and apologists took up this theme, in addition to the small community of experts. But some of them lacked the necessary knowledge of history and theology, critical work with sources, the ability to make general comparisons and the ability to free themselves of the excessive association with their own confession. It is very difficult to arrive at a balanced view free of prejudice, clichés and stereotypes. In this context, the work of Jiří Rak, Bývali Čechové (They were Czechs)…, which many other authors later built on, especially in relation to the teaching of history, is a great contribution and inspiration for historians of church history. The work points out with great precision the main Czech myths and stereotypes with no claims for their immediate solution, and it also contains interesting expressions of certain authorities concerning the church, its personalities and role in Czech history. |
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