Historical present

As a historical present (Latin praesens historicum, even narrative present tense) is the use of the present tense in narratives of the past - called - especially in historical chronicles.

Use

The use of the historical present is a way the listener or reader almost bring the historical data. The reader should be able to understand the historical events better by the use of the historical present, as can be important selective events are described in the historical present. It is occasionally used in history books, historical summaries and chronologies. Often quotes with the historical present are introduced.

Criticism

In the science of history, however, the use of the historical present is not recommended. The usual time form of historical representation is the past tense. Present tense forms are used only in argumentative passages, about to deal with a source or the literature. The popular in rather trivial representations of stylistic devices of the change to the present tense, "if it is exciting," acts in multiple scientific context confusing - not least because it suggests a non-existing nearby - and should therefore be avoided.

Examples

• In the year 800 Charlemagne is crowned.
• Confucius says: "..."
• On April 15, 1912 at 2:20 clock the Titanic sinks to 41 ° 46 ' N 50 ° 14' W.
• A roof is covered with snow yesterday. [ Around the caption in a newspaper. ]