Herbert Grundmann (1902-1970)

This collection translates six influential essays by Herbert Grundmann, exploring heresy and medieval religious history, providing fresh insights into his impactful scholarship.

The first English translation of pivotal essays on heresy and various aspects of medieval religious history has arrived. In the realm of medieval religious studies, few scholars have shown the same level of originality as Herbert Grundmann (1902-1970). A product of the University of Leipzig and the long-serving president of the Monumenta Germaniae Historica, Grundmann's influential writings have had a lasting impact on how historians view the culture and religion of the medieval era. Despite his significant contributions, much of his work remained largely inaccessible to English-speaking audiences for decades.

This volume presents translations of six of Grundmann's most important essays, focusing on the interconnected themes of medieval heresy, literacy, and the inquisition. These essays not only provide insight into Grundmann's scholarship but also serve as a catalyst for new perspectives on the complexities of the medieval religious landscape. The translations aim to bridge the gap between his groundbreaking ideas and contemporary readers, encouraging a reevaluation of his intellectual legacy in modern scholarship.

Jennifer Kolpacoff Deane, a Professor of History at the University of Minnesota, Morris, has meticulously curated this collection. By bringing Herbert Grundmann (1902-1970) to an Anglophone audience, she opens the door for further exploration and understanding of the medieval religious past, ensuring that Grundmann's work continues to influence scholars in the twenty-first century.