Herder's conception of "das Volk"

"Herder's Conception of 'das Volk'" by Georgiana Rose Simpson explores the meaning of "Volk" as Johann Gottfried Herder understood it. The work looks at the history of the word by looking at the Germanic languages to show how it relates to culture and individual expression. The dissertation starts by explaining the word's history, tracking its roots and meanings across different Germanic languages, showing changes over time. Simpson explains how "Volk" changed from just meaning groups of people to representing important ideas about national identity and culture. By diving into Herder's philosophy, Simpson prepares to discuss how "Volk" separates those who rule and those who are ruled while capturing the heart of shared culture and individual traits with populations.