Métamorphoses

Metamophoses: Describing the Indescribable in Early Modern Studies


For the Sixteenth Century Society and Conference (Minneapolis, 24-28 October, 2007) the "Theorizing Early Modern Studies" collaborative at the University of Minnesota is proposing a panel on the relationship between transformation and efforts at its representation. We are interested in papers from a broad range of disciplines and fields. While papers may deal specifically with Ovidian themes, we seek proposals that treat "metamorphosis" not simply as a theme but as a concept for critical analysis. How does metamorphosis in early modern culture generate problems of representation? What are the stakes of these problems, whether technological, aesthetic, political, or ethical? In what ways might a critical engagement with metamorphosis (of bodies, genres, media, etc.) open new possibilities within the field of early modern studies?

Please send a short abstract (200 words) to cherbuli@umn.edu AND jbshank@umn.edu by 12 March.