University of Exeter- 19 and 20 June 2014
“This conference aims to bring together scholars from English, History and Classics to discuss the various ways in which classical drama was utilised throughout the early modern period. What was the social and moral value of studying ancient dramas and how were they applicable to the political and economic structures in England between 1450 and 1700? Was England unique in the reception of performance of classical drama? How does the reception of ancient Greek and Roman tragedy and comedy in England differ from the wider European context? Discussions will not be limited to the performance of classical dramas either in the original or in the vernacular – broader questions relating to the influence of humanism and the synthesis between classical and native dramatic traditions are also welcome. Papers focusing on particular playwrights and authors from across the early modern period will also be considered.
Possible topics for discussion might include:
• Humanism and the value of classical drama as part of the English grammar school curriculum • Classical drama in the Universities and Inns of Court • Performance of classical dramas in noble households and at court • The use of classical models for popular audiences- The synthesis between the classical and the popular traditions • Classical drama and religion- What was the relationship between religious change and the use of classical paradigms on the English stage? • The translation and transmission of classical dramas • The relationship between drama and rhetoric
(We are also hoping to form a special panel on Milton’s use of ancient drama)”
The deadline for the submission of abstracts has now been extended. Please email clm216@ex.ac.uk with 150-200 word abstract by 28th March 2014.
Conference information here
Premodern Performance Cultures 