Idrottsbiografin bortom hjältemyten

Abstract

Biography has traditionally held a marginal status in historical scholarship, yet there are indications of a resurgence in biographical methods. This article examines how biographical perspectives can also enrich sports history research. Drawing on the author's personal experiences in writing a sports biography about Swedish middle-distance runner Gunder Hägg, the article explores both the potential and the pitfalls of this approach. Key questions addressed include: What kind of knowledge can be attained through biographical method? What can the life of an individual reveal about a specific historical context? Concepts such as micro history, persona, and media systems are discussed in the analysis.