EUROPE IN THE TRIPARTITE DIVISION OF THE EARTH: HERODOTEAN IMAGE OF THE WORLD IN THE ETYMOLOGIAE BY ISIDORE OF SEVILLE.

Ancient authors depicted continents with varying degrees of detail and interest. Europe was often viewed as the embodiment of the civilized world, yet its portrayal was ambivalent, serving as a contrast to the more mysterious regions of Asia and Africa. However, this was due not to a disregard for European details but rather because Europe seemed more familiar and culturally understood by the ancient authors. Isidore's portrayal of Europe aligns with traditional geographical views that trace the reader back to Herodotus' image of the world and other ancient Greek and Roman influences, emphasising Europe's role as a familiar and easily recognisable part of the world. Despite centuries that passed between Herodotus and Isidore, the perspective of the 7th-century scholar did not innovate on the existing tripartite division, as such changes would have disrupted the long-standing geographical and political consensus. Instead, Isidore adapts these ancient frameworks, infusing them with Christian perspectives while maintaining the established order. This simplified ancient view of Europe endured for centuries, illustrating the lasting impact of historical perspectives in the Middle Ages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]