History of historiography

Objectives:
- Students will get to know the basic concepts and contents of the field of historiography in a historical perspective;
- They will develop the ability to critically use various types of publications of historical sources and literature;
- Through discussions and independent work, students' critical thinking will be stimulated, especially in their initial approach to the publication of historical sources and literature;
- Students' scientific literacy will be promoted;
- Students will get to know the history of historiography with special attention to the most important authors, their works, historiographic genres, work methods, etc.

Competences:
- Students will develop the ability to think critically and the ability to critically use publications of historical sources and literature;
- Students will understand the complexity of historiographical sources and their connection with historical contexts.

No prerequisites are required.

The course covers a general overview of the development of historical science or historiography from its ancient origins to the present day. Through a chronological overview, students will learn about the diverse historiographical production, the most important authors and their works.
Emphasis will be placed on the introduction to different historiographical genres and periods. The first part will cover Greek, Roman and Byzantine historiography, followed by an overview of medieval, modern and contemporary historical science. In addition, the broader historical context will be included in order to better understand the social influences on the historiographical profession. A certain amount of time will also be devoted to the development of Slovenian scientific historiography in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Special attention is also paid to different ways of approaching historical sources and their publication.

Knowledge and understanding:
Students will master concepts from the field of historiography and their correct use in studies and professional work;
- Students will have a broad knowledge of the history of historiography with special attention to the most important authors, their works, historiographic genres, work methods, etc., which represents fundamental knowledge for further study and professional work;
- Students will know how to use the scientific apparatus (citations, references from the literature, etc.).

Application:

The knowledge and competences developed in the course form the basis for an understanding of history and historiography and are an important basis for further studies and professional work.

Exam (60%)
Seminar work (40%)

Devetak's scientific research focuses primarily on social and economic history, women's history and nationalism at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, with an emphasis on the border area that is today divided between the Republic of Slovenia and the Republic of Italy. In addition, he is researching themes related to refugees and the civilian population during the First World War. The results of his research have been published in several original scientific and professional articles at home and abroad, as well as in monographs. He has also participated in numerous Slovenian and international symposia, round tables and exhibitions, which have been hosted in Slovenia and Italy. Since 2025, he has been leading the implementation of the research project entitled Women's National Activism: The Activities of the Women's Branches of the Society of Sts Cyril and Methodius on Slovenia's National Borders, funded by the Public Agency for Scientific Research and Innovation of the Republic of Slovenia, as the project leader.
Full bibliography:
https://bib.cobiss.net/bibliographies/si/webBiblio/bib201_20250605_144204_37432.html