TEMPUS: The Early Modern Period Under Scrutiny

 

Mission statement

The early modern period, running roughly from the late 15th to the late 18th century, is a pivotal era in world history that witnessed profound transformations in politics, culture, science, economies, and society as a whole. Understanding this period of transition is therefore crucial for gaining insights into the roots of our contemporary world. However, the richness and complexity of the early modern world and the traces it has left require interdisciplinary collaboration to fully uncover its multifaceted dimensions. By bringing together scholars from various disciplinary backgrounds, TEMPUS aims to forge new connections and synergies that will not only deepen our understanding of the early modern period itself, but also – in keeping with RICH’s own mission – inspire critical thinking about the connections between the past and present.

Objectives

•         TEMPUS serves as a platform for scholars from various expertise groups within the Faculty of Arts to come together and explore possibilities for collaboration on research topics and projects related to the early modern period. 
•         TEMPUS organises regular research seminars where members can present their work (in progress), share insights, and engage in productive discussions. On occasion, scholars from other universities are invited to give lectures. 
•         By participating in TEMPUS, scholars have the opportunity to get to know each other's research interests, sources, methodologies, and findings. 

Research projects

Afbeelding van oude brieven

Business as Usual

This PhD project revolves around the business correspondence of merchants in the early modern Low Countries.

Een dienstmeid probeert met een ragebol een spinnenweb met spin te verwijderen. Illustratie bij het verhaal 'De spin en de zijdeworm' uit 'Fabelen voor de Nederlandsche jeugd' (1792). Rijksmuseum Amsterdam, inv.nr. RP-P-1907-5006.

Bugging Bugs

This PhD project examines how and why a narrative of disgust and unease emerged, spread, and became the dominant narrative on bugs still prevalent today.

Spotprent Vrijheid gelijkheid en broederschap. Atlas van Stolk, Rotterdam

Literary mockery in the Dutch Republic

This research investigates the relationship between the aesthetic or formal dimensions of Dutch humour texts (1600-1800) and their political meanings.