16th Trends in Classics International Conference
William & Mary, Classical Studies
Aristotle University, Department of Classics
16th Trends in Classics International Conference
Memory, Ritual, and Identity in Greece and Rome
Thessaloniki, September 29 to October 1, 2022
Conference Venue
Auditorium I
Aristotle University, Research Dissemination Center
September 3rd Avenue, University Campus
http://kedea.rc.auth.gr
Though the issue of identity is not new, it has recently dominated the arena of public debate with renewed force and urgency. Identities are created through an amalgamation of multivalent views, values, and bonds. Individuals determine their sense of self through personal values; by belonging to ethnic, religious, familial, or other social groups; and/or by adhering to certain political views or ideologies. Individual identities are inextricably linked to collective identifications, informed by shared memories and experiences; these in turn shape the narratives, histories, and practices that strengthen the connections among members of the community. Ritual plays a foundational role in this process, as deeply felt, iterative action that brings members of a community together, to form powerful memories in which they negotiate their relationships with one another, society at large, and the gods. Like memory, ritual constitutes another means through which societies establish, perform, and enhance their collective identity.
In this conference we would like to consider the triptych of memory, ritual, and identity to explore their complex interconnections; the ways in which they shape and in turn are shaped by individual and collective experiences; and how they can help us understand better the concept of identity in the ancient Greco-Roman world. This conference aims to consider the topic from a truly interdisciplinary perspective. We welcome papers that deal with material culture, broadly construed (epigraphy, visual arts, architecture, etc.) as well as texts (historical, literary, oratorical, etc.).
The papers may explore, but certainly need not be limited to, the following questions: In what ways are identities formed and how do they connect with memory? What is the role of religious custom and law, observance, and belief in the process of identity formation? How and to what degree do they help the processes through which memory is formed and disseminated?
Organizing Committee
Vassiliki Panoussi, William & Mary
Hutton William, William & Mary
Antonios Rengakos, Aristotle University & Academy of Athens
Stavros Frangoulidis, Aristotle University
The organizers would like to acknowledge the kind and generous support of:
