European Identity

This essay explores the notion of European identity in the present. It begins with an examination of traditional definitions of Europe and of European identity proposed by Paul Valéry and Denis de Rougemont, among others. While these definitions rely primarily on the Judeo-Christian and Greco-Roman heritages, Todorov proposes a more “pluralistic” conception of European identity that encompases other, non-European heritages as well. The essay concludes with a discussion of contemporary Europe and European identity against the backdrop of the EU and America.