In “Die Aufklärung, das ‘Volk’ und wir heute“ Wolfgang Schmale undertakes a comprehensive exploration of the term “Volk” (people, peuple, nation) across German, French, and English-speaking contexts, delving into its historical evolution and multifaceted conceptualizations. Beyond linguistic analysis, the article encompasses insights from art history and various intellectual disciplines. Schmale scrutinizes how “Volk” has been employed to convey notions of community, identity, and belonging, while also being appropriated for nationalist agendas. Through a nuanced examination of historical sources and theoretical frameworks, the article illuminates the complexities surrounding this concept, shedding light on its contested nature and ideological implications within European intellectual history.