Fascination with pre-modernity: historians reveal amazing findings!

Fascination with pre-modernity: historians reveal amazing findings!

On June 25, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. an exciting event will take place at Bielefeld University that will deal with historical topics from the Middle Ages and the early modern period. Historians from the university will present their current research results in nine eight-minute lectures. Admission is free and the event takes place at No. z. Pl. (Große-Kurfürsten-Straße 81). Bielefeld University reports this in a current article.

The topics of the lectures are diverse and illuminate various aspects of pre-modern society. For example, Prof’in Dr. Silke Schwandt will speak about the role of artificial intelligence in the context of the Middle Ages. The theological discourse about mystics, treated by Dr. Gion Wallmeyer, will be part of the event. Anna-Lea Krampe will deal with bisexual behavior in pre-modern sodomy procedures, while Moritz Schädler will provide an insight into the diary of a Nuremberg prison chaplain.

The social dynamics of the pre-modern period

A central goal of the event is to make social dynamics of the pre-modern era visible and to compare them with today's social conditions. According to a report by the Max Weber Foundation, social inequalities are currently one of the most pressing challenges. Historical inequalities can help to better understand current phenomena. Although the Middle Ages are often seen as an era that has been overcome, artistic depictions often present idealizations that do not correspond to reality.

In addition, it is often overlooked that women and people of other faiths are excluded from these depictions. Medieval society was not only divided into worshipers, warriors and workers, but also offered space for alternative social models. Phases of upheaval during this time led to discussions about social order and change that are still relevant today.

Transformation and social inequality

The research project at Bielefeld University attempts to investigate the “transformation of the Roman world” between 400 and 850 – the transition from antiquity to the Middle Ages. Among other things, the challenge of researching marginalized groups without traditional self-testimonies is considered. Social history should not be limited to the stories of the elite, but should also include the perspectives of “silent” groups.

This analysis aims to question perspectives on elite ideas of order and to shed light on the interaction of various forms of discrimination. In this context, poverty is viewed as multifaceted, with factors such as religious affiliation and gender playing a role. A deeper understanding of how social inequalities arise and function is crucial to overcoming them.

The event at Bielefeld University is not only a contribution to science, but also an attempt to raise awareness of social inequalities and show parallels to today's social challenges. For further information, those interested can visit the blog of the History Department on the Bielefeld University website. Details about the event can also be found in the publications of Max Weber Foundation be read while Germanistic media studies provides further historical context.