ervaringsgeschiedenis

Ervaringsgeschiedenis, often translated as "history of experience" or "experiential history," refers to the study of how people in the past experienced and understood their world. It moves beyond traditional historical narratives focused on events, institutions, and prominent figures to explore the subjective and lived realities of everyday people. This approach emphasizes the significance of emotions, perceptions, beliefs, and sensory experiences in shaping historical understanding.

Scholars in this field draw upon a wide range of sources, including personal diaries, letters, oral histories, literature, art, and even material culture, to reconstruct past experiences. They are interested in how individuals made sense of their circumstances, how they navigated social norms, and how their individual feelings and thoughts contributed to broader historical currents. Ervaringsgeschiedenis seeks to uncover the nuances of human existence in different historical periods, acknowledging that historical actors did not always think or feel as modern individuals might.

The field is interdisciplinary, often incorporating insights from sociology, psychology, anthropology, and literary studies. It aims to provide a more textured and relatable understanding of the past by focusing on the human element. By delving into the "how it felt" of history, ervaringsgeschiedenis enriches our comprehension of historical change and continuity, offering a more empathetic and comprehensive view of human lives across time.