29th Annual Student Research Conference
Self-Portrait of a Dynasty: How the Habsburgs Regarded their Monarchy
Emma J. Burton
Dr. David Robinson and Dr. Sally West, Faculty Mentors
The Habsburg dynasty ruled and spread its dominance over Europe for more than half a millennium. By the nineteenth century this powerful family was criticized as a throw-back to the past that could not adapt to the conditions of the modern world. In all the historical research on the Habsburg monarchy, there is limited information on how the Habsburgs viewed themselves. Some historians have noticed how the dynasty's self-image changed several times since the 1400s and how that process has played a role in the Habsburgs' longevity and success in foreign relations. Using these historical approaches, this paper examines the various 'self-portraits' of the Habsburgs, to judge how this dynasty used this method of extending their power during its long reign.
Keywords: Habsburg Monarchy, dynasticism, self-image, European nations
Topic(s):History Senior Seminar
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: -4
Location: MG 2090
Time: 8:45