NCSA invites proposals for papers, panels, roundtables, and special sessions that explore our theme of Discovery in the long nineteenth century (1789-1914). As an interdisciplinary organization, we particularly seek papers by scholars working in art/architecture/visual studies, cultural studies, economics, gender and sexuality, history (including history of the book), language and literature, law and politics, musicology, philosophy, and science (and the history of science). In light of the many changes in pedagogy, research, and the exchange of ideas we have all experienced this past year, we particularly welcome papers, panels, or roundtable topics that address discoveries in the use of technology for nineteenth-century studies and teaching.
Papers might discuss uncovering lost cities, recovering forgotten manuscripts, or discovering new ways of thinking about aesthetic and historical periods. Scholars might explore the physical recovery of the past (archeology, geology), but also intellectual recovery as old ideas become new (evolution, neoclassicism, socialism, spiritualism). Papers might discuss publicizing discoveries (periodicals, lectures) or exhibiting discoveries (museums, world’s fairs, exhibitions). Other topics might include rediscovering and revisiting the period: teaching the nineteenth century, editing primary texts, and working toward diversity and social justice in the humanities.
