In historical research,the subjectivity of medieval authors was often perceived as a negative factor which had to be excluded by critical methods. Only for two or three decades, the history of perceptions, interpretations and conceptions is recognized as an important approach (not only) to medieval history. Thus, the articles collected in the volume use this approach to come to a better understanding of the late medieval world and to put modern reception and discussions on a more solid foundation.

Joachim Laczny ist wissenschaftlicher Mitarbeiter am Historischen Seminar der Universität Hamburg. Dr. Jürgen Sarnowsky ist Professor für Mittelalterliche Geschichte an der Universität Hamburg.