The literature of early medieval England, both Old English and Anglo-Latin, is often characterized either by a derivative devotion to an authoritative past, or by unorthodox innovation. While this dichotomy between tradition and innovation has much merit, many textual examples defy this categorization. In some cases, innovative texts and authors actually conform closely to their discursive models, while other texts that seem to adhere to tradition in fact create significant developments and variations. Untangling the complex relationships between texts and their sources reveals much about composition, genre, form, and language – the very foundations of textual practice.

We are seeking papers for a conference proposed to be held at the University of Toronto in April-May 2026 on topics elucidating a literature of adaptation and variation in early medieval England that originate from the transmission of ideas, traditions, and aspects of form through textual networks and cultural exchanges. Possible topics include, but are not limited to:

  *   The influence of the curriculum / glossematic tradition
  *   The use of allusion
  *   Prosimetric and mixed language texts
  *   Strategies of translation and formal adaptation
  *   Social and intellectual networks in the production of literature
  *   New methodologies for understanding the relationships between texts

For consideration, please submit abstracts and a c.v. to Prof. Renée Trilling (renee.trilling@utoronto.ca) and/or Dr. Tristan Major (tristan.major@utoronto.ca) by 15 January 2025. The conference will be dependent on the successful application of funding, which will cover some costs for the participants.