Exploring archives
Examine statements and historical rules in The Archaeology of Knowledge.
An original introduction. This guide accompanies the work; it is neither the complete text nor a translation.
Situating the text
Published in 1969 after several historical studies, it reformulates and revises earlier approaches. Archive also names a historical system of statements, not merely a repository of documents. Foucault clarifies his method for analyzing discourse through statements, archives and discursive formations. He asks how historical rules organize what can be said rather than seeking one hidden intention behind each text.
Following the arguments
Statement : A proposition functions within practices and conditions of appearance. Formation : Regularities connect objects, concepts and speaking positions without necessarily forming a coherent doctrine. Archive : Possibilities of speaking and preserving vary according to historical rules.
Continuing the reading
Choose a concrete example and distinguish an isolated sentence from its function within a documentary field. Published in 1969 after several historical studies, it reformulates and revises earlier approaches. Archive also names a historical system of statements, not merely a repository of documents.
A statement acquires meaning within practices and documents.
Your turn to think.
- Who is able to speak in the documents being studied?
- What rule connects this statement to other documents of its period?
Your selection and progress stay in this browser.