This panel and roundtable seek to investigate the value of close reading in early modern studies. Since the sunset of New Criticism’s zenith in literary studies, close reading has assumed a primarily pedagogical role. But what of its theoretical and historicist payoff? What position can close reading play in the 2024 scholarly landscape?

Papers proposed for the panel may address any aspect of close reading, from its utility for approaching particular Renaissance texts (broadly conceived), to its role amid other methodologies now in vogue, to attendant questions of early modern textual transmission and translation. Case studies are welcome, as are comparative and interdisciplinary approaches.

Individuals who wish to speak on the roundtable may consider close reading within and across disciplines, its theoretical and/or historical value, or any other facet of the topic.

To propose a paper for the panel, please send your CV, current affiliation, and a 250-word paper abstract with title to hcotter@umass.edu by Thursday, February 1, 2024.

To propose a speaking topic for the roundtable, please send your CV, current affiliation, and a 100-word summary of what topic(s) you will address to hcotter@umass.edu by Thursday, February 1, 2024.

For more on the Sixteenth Century Society, see Sixteenth Century Society.