Includes bibliographical references and index.

A preliminary exploration of the postmodernist challenge -- Postmodernity as the triumph of continuity: structural postmodernism -- Postmodernity as the age of dominant change: poststructuralist postmodernism -- Poststructuralist postmodernism and the reshaping of society -- Concluding observations.

What does postmodernism mean for the future of history? Can one still write history in postmodernity? To answer questions such as these, Ernst Breisach provides the first comprehensive overview of postmodernism and its complex relationship to history and historiography. Placing postmodern theories in their intellectual and historical contexts, he shows how they are part of broad developments in Western culture. Breisach sees postmodernism as neither just a fad nor a universal remedy. In clear and concise language, he presents and critically evaluates the major views on history held by influent.