History of celebrity branching out

Abstract

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the expanding field of celebrity history. While there was once a debate surrounding the application of the concept of celebrity to the past, historians have recently recognised the importance of exploring transient fame and social distinction, solidifying this line of inquiry. However, our understanding of historical celebrity has since evolved, involving new themes, time periods, and geographical contexts, which has led to a diverse range of approaches and perspectives. By examining how historians have explored the topic in recent years, this article identifies the strengths and limitations of different approaches, offering a fresh and updated understanding of the complexities of studying the role of fame throughout history.