Presented by Penn English and the Center for Italian Studies

This conference asks scholars to consider the Gothic's function across differing "states"—as a language both for addressing incipient nationalisms, and for representing divided consciousness, whether sexual, political, filial, or religious. The most powerful Gothic texts, in fact, place these concerns in dialogue with one another, depicting individuals and communities under duress in times of upheaval. Plenary speakers will be Maurizio Ascari (University of Bologna), Robin Furth (Marvel Comics), Diego Saglia (University of Parma), and Angela Wright (University of Sheffield).