Final answer:
Historical empathy enables historians to study the past without modern-day biases, and understand the complex factors involved in events like the Vikings leaving Greenland. Recognizing one's biases contributes to a more accurate and inclusive historical narrative.
Step-by-step explanation:
Historical empathy is critical for historians to understand the past. It involves seeing the past in its own terms, without imposing our modern-day attitudes or passing judgment. This approach complements the interpretive process and is essential for answering questions like 'Why did the Vikings leave Greenland?' By practicing historical empathy, we avoid anachronisms that can distort our understanding of historical events and motives.
It's important for historians to recognize and evaluate their biases. Acknowledging the influence of our background, experiences, and contemporary values on our interpretation of history is necessary to remain as objective as possible. This reflective practice allows for a more nuanced and inclusive picture of the past, as it integrates diverse perspectives and underrepresented voices into the study of history.
The practice of historical empathy does not mean condoning or endorsing past actions; rather, it allows us to comprehend the complex web of historical causation and contributing factors without immediate judgment. This deeper understanding is vital for constructing a reliable narrative of why events like the Viking departure from Greenland happened and can contribute to our overall understanding of history's interconnectedness and human behavior.