1. Basic Structures

The term “modern period” (Ger. Neuzeit), which has been in general use only since the mid-19th century, refers to the period from the end of the Middle Ages to the present. Since the 16th century it has also been accompanied by the consciousness of belonging to a new epoch. In discussion from the time of the Enlightenment, independence and self-assertion are thus basic features. Independence indeed does not exclude th…