cronici

Cronici is the Romanian plural noun derived from cronica. In general, cronici refers to narratives that record events in chronological order, often compiled by clerics, historians, or court officials. Chronicles aim to present a sequence of events—political changes, wars, dynastic affairs, religious developments, and notable natural phenomena—and may include annal-like year entries, genealogies, and sometimes miracles or anecdotes. The term is also used for critical writing in journalism, where cronici literare or cronici de artă provide reviews and assessments of books, performances, or exhibitions.

Etymology and scope: Cronici derives from Latin chronica, via Greek chronika, and has cognates in many Romance languages (e.g., French chroniques, Italian cronache). In medieval Europe, cronici were among the principal means of recording history before the rise of modern historiography, often produced by monasteries and royal chancelleries.

In Romanian historiography, the tradition is partly preserved in letopisețe—medieval chronicles such as Letopisețul Moldovei and Letopisețul Țării Românești—that document events, rulers, and foreign relations, sometimes with moral or religious commentary. These texts are valued as sources for reconstructing national history despite its narrative and partisan elements.

In contemporary usage, cronici continue to denote critical reviews in newspapers, magazines, and online media, spanning literature, theater, film, and other arts. See also: chronicles, letopisețe, historiography.