The History of Mentalities

The History of Mentalities is an approach in historical studies that focuses on the values, beliefs, and everyday thought patterns of people in different societies and eras, rather than just political events or leaders. It seeks to understand how ordinary people perceived their world, including their feelings, practices, and social norms. This perspective shows how collective mental frameworks shape culture, influence behavior, and inform historical change. By examining mentalities, historians can uncover deeper insights into the human experience, revealing how societies understand concepts like time, community, and morality throughout history.