Brevitas is a scholarly society founded in 2018 to advance the study of premodern short narrative, or Kleinepik. The term covers concise texts designed to be experienced in a single reading or performance, including tales, fables, comic stories, legends, riddles, dialogues, proverbs, and devotional narratives. The society brings researchers together through regular conferences, supporting new interpretations and research initiatives across disciplines. It also connects projects and specialists, encourages international exchange, and strengthens links between research and teaching, with particular attention to early-career scholars.

Brevitas maintains a growing online database featuring primary texts, descriptive metadata, bibliographies, and information about current research projects. Its online journal, Brevitas – Zeitschrift für Kleinepik, publishes work from society conferences as well as other innovative scholarship on the field. The organization also promotes public engagement with research and shares news about related projects, publications, and opportunities. Through these activities, Brevitas helps make the study of premodern short narratives more accessible to scholars, students, and wider audiences while supporting their continued discovery and interpretation.