history of mentalités

The history of mentalités, or the study of collective mindsets, emerged as a significant field within historiography, particularly after World War II. This approach, championed by historians like Lucien Febvre and Marc Bloch, shifted focus from prominent figures and events to the everyday lives, beliefs, and unconscious preconceptions of ordinary people.123

The term "mentalité" itself, from French, refers to the outlook or the set of ideas, values, and beliefs shared by a community. Historians employing this method delve into aspects like popular attitudes, superstitions, and the underlying cultural frameworks that shaped societies. This contrasts with traditional historical narratives that often centered on politics, wars, and leaders. The Annales School, founded by Febvre and Bloch, was instrumental in developing and popularizing this approach, aiming for a "total history" by integrating social, economic, and cultural factors.412