Renaissance England’s Staging of the Middle Ages

Currently seeking papers for this special session for the 42nd International Congress in Medieval Studies (Kalamazoo, May 10-13, 2007).

The influence of the Middle Ages on Renaissance drama has long been recognized, but much of the influential scholarship is overdue for reconsideration, and has overwhelmingly been conducted from the point of view of Renaissance studies. James Simpson’s chapter on drama in his Reform and Cultural Revolution begins to redress the latter concern. Following his lead, this panel will seek studies of the depiction of the medieval world on the Renaissance stage in England, with emphasis on themes of continuity and conscious periodization. Suggested topics will include (but not be limited to) religious, political, social, gender, audience, and performance issues.

Please send abstracts of 200-300 words along with a brief cover letter to:

John P. Sexton
University of Connecticut, Medieval Studies Department
Box U-4025
Storrs, CT 06269
john.sexton@uconn.edu