“Central Europe”

Abstract

This Introduction deals with diverse definitions and perceptions of medieval Central Europe that developed over time, among which also its modern geopolitical uses. The chapter then points out the region’s medieval entanglements and the need to observe them in the broadest spatial terms and by comprehensive mutual interactions of the region’s societies and their neighborhood. By reflecting on the structure of the volume and scholarly contributions published in it, this chapter concludes acknowledging the importance of scholarly collaboration in providing comprehensive comparative accounts on medieval Central Europe.