Abstract

The Power of Networks describes a typology of network-based research practices in the historical disciplines, ranging from the use of quantitative network analysis in cultural, economic, social or political history or religious studies, to novel approaches in the Digital Humanities. Network data visualisations and calculations have proven to be useful tools for the analysis of mostly textual sources containing relational information, offering new perspectives on complex historical phenomena. Including case studies from antiquity to contemporary history, the book provides a clear demonstration of the opportunities historical network research provides for historical studies. The examples presented within the pages of this volume are arranged in a way to highlight three central typological pillars of HNR: construction and analysis of historical networks; computational extraction of network data and infrastructures for data collection and exploration. The Power of Networks outlines the history and current state of research in HNR and points towards future research frontiers in the wake of new digital technologies. As such, the book should be essential reading for academics, students and practitioners with an interest in digital humanities, history, archaeology and religion.