The CAPES Histoire 2025 is a significant challenge, requiring rigorous preparation and a deep understanding of historical methodologies and analysis. A robust bibliography is crucial for success. This guide offers a structured approach to building your reading list, categorized for clarity and effectiveness. Remember, this is a starting point; adapt it to your strengths and weaknesses.
I. Methodological Foundations: Mastering Historical Analysis
Before diving into specific periods, solidify your understanding of historical methodology. These texts provide essential frameworks for interpreting sources and constructing arguments:
- Marc Bloch, Apologie pour l'histoire: A foundational text exploring the nature and purpose of historical inquiry. Bloch's emphasis on empathy and meticulous research remains crucial.
- Lucien Febvre, Combats pour l'histoire: Complementary to Bloch, Febvre highlights the importance of context and the limitations of sources. Their combined work forms a cornerstone of historical methodology.
- Roger Chartier, Histoire culturelle: This work explores the intersection of culture and history, offering valuable insights into the analysis of practices and representations.
- Michel de Certeau, L'écriture de l'histoire: De Certeau examines the relationship between the historian and their subject, urging a critical approach to narrative construction.
- Natalie Zemon Davis, The Return of Martin Guerre: A practical example of meticulous historical research, showcasing the power of combining diverse sources.
II. Essential Historical Periods and Themes (Adapt to the Program):
The CAPES Histoire program changes, so consult the official program for 2025. However, some recurrent themes and periods frequently appear. This section is a template; replace these examples with themes and periods relevant to the current program:
A. Ancient History:
- Moses Finley, The Ancient Economy: A classic text analyzing the economic structures of the ancient world.
- Paul Veyne, Le Pain et le Cirque: Explores Roman society and its relationship to power. (Adapt to your specific focus within Roman history)
- Specific studies on Greek democracy or the Roman Republic: Choose focused studies relevant to the program's emphasis.
B. Medieval History:
- Jacques Le Goff, La civilisation de l'Occident médiéval: A broad overview of medieval society and culture.
- Georges Duby, Les trois ordres: Explores the social structure of medieval Europe.
- Specific monographs on the Crusades, feudalism, or the Black Death: Tailor your selections to the program's focus.
C. Modern History (16th-18th Centuries):
- Emmanuel Le Roy Ladurie, Le Carnaval de Romans: A micro-historical study illustrating the interplay of social and cultural factors.
- Studies on the French Revolution: Choose focused works relevant to the program’s thematic emphasis.
- Works on the Enlightenment and Absolutism: Select texts focusing on your specific areas of interest and expertise.
D. Contemporary History (19th-21st Centuries):
- Eric Hobsbawm, The Age of Revolution: A broad overview of the 19th century.
- Studies on colonialism, industrialization, or World Wars: Choose relevant specialized works aligning with the program.
- Works on the Cold War and decolonization: Select texts providing nuanced perspectives.
III. Developing Specialized Knowledge:
Beyond broad overviews, demonstrate expertise in a specific area. This showcases your capacity for in-depth analysis. Choose a topic that genuinely interests you and allows for focused research.
IV. Beyond Books: Utilizing Journals and Primary Sources
- Journals: Consult leading historical journals (e.g., Annales , Revue historique, etc.) for the latest scholarship.
- Primary Sources: Engage with original documents, letters, diaries, and other primary materials relevant to your chosen periods and themes.
Note: This bibliography is a dynamic tool. Regularly consult the official CAPES Histoire program and adapt your reading list accordingly. Remember to prioritize quality over quantity. A deep understanding of a few key texts is far more valuable than superficial knowledge of many. Good luck with your preparations!
