Between polis and cosmopolis: what is Europe?

In recent years, there has been renewed academic interest in the origins and evolution of European identity, with scholars examining how historical narratives have shaped contemporary understandings of Europe. A detailed analysis published in 24ur (POP TV) explores the complex interplay between political, cultural, and ideological forces that have defined Europe over millennia. The piece traces the conceptualization of Europe from ancient times through the medieval period, highlighting key moments in its formation and transformation. The concept of Europe began to take shape in classical antiquity, particularly within the framework of ancient Greek thought. While early Greeks identified their homeland as Greece, they gradually expanded their geographical understanding to include regions that would later be recognized as parts of modern-day Europe. This expansion was documented by historians such as Hecataeus and Herodotus during the 6th and 5th centuries BCE. Herodotus notably questioned the traditional division of the world into Europe, Asia, and Libya (Africa), suggesting that this classification did not align with the geographic realities known to other ancient cultures. The Romans adopted and further developed these ideas, integrating them into their own worldview. Although neither Greeks nor Romans considered themselves Europeans in the modern sense, they contributed to the emergence of a shared cultural and intellectual foundation. Roman legal and political systems were influenced by Greek philosophy and Christianity, creating a synthesis of ideas that would underpin much of Western civilization. This fusion of traditions laid the groundwork for ongoing debates about European identity and values throughout history. Following the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the concept of Europe evolved in response to the fragmentation of power and the rise of new political entities. The Franks, particularly under the Carolingian dynasty, played a crucial role in shaping the emerging idea of Europe. The year 754 marks a pivotal moment, as recorded in the Mozarabic Chronicle, which describes the victory of the Franks over the Muslim Umayyad Caliphate. This event is interpreted as the beginning of the formation of a distinct European cultural identity, characterized by a shared heritage and common values. Charlemagne, crowned Emperor of the Romans by Pope Leo III in 800, became a symbol of this evolving concept. His court scholar, Cathwulf, referred to him as the "Father of Europe," a title that continues to resonate today. While the Eastern Roman Empire, Byzantium, maintained continuity with the old imperial tradition, it often stood in contrast to the West. Over time, the notion of Europe increasingly came to represent the Western Christian world, incorporating elements of Byzantine influence while developing its own distinct characteristics. Throughout the Middle Ages, the idea of Europe continued to evolve, shaped by diverse influences including Germanic, Slavic, and other regional cultures. Despite the fragmentation of political authority, a sense of shared identity persisted, grounded in common legal traditions, religious practices, and intellectual exchanges. The Church, functioning as one of the earliest forms of transnational institution, helped maintain cohesion among disparate states and territories. Today, the question of what constitutes Europe remains a subject of intense debate. Historians argue that the concept has always been secondary to broader universalist ideals, such as the Christian community’s global reach and local identities tied to cities, regions, and kingdoms. Yet, the unique trajectory of European civilization, rooted in ancient Rome and enriched by subsequent developments, continues to define its distinctive character and enduring legacy.