English Literature Conferences
If you are a doctoral student or professor of English literature, attending conferences is part of your job. Conferences are where new research is presented, collaborative networks are strengthened and publishers roll out their latest scholarly books. The major annual conferences in North America are those of the American Literature Association (ALA), the Modern Language Association (MLA), the College English Association (CEA) and the American Council of Learned Societies (ACLS).
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American Literature Association
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The conference of the American Literature Association is held annually on Memorial Day weekend. The majority of presentations are given by scholars from its member societies, such as the American Religion and Literature Society, the Circle for Asian American Literary Studies and the Emily Dickinson International Society. Members of those societies should refer to their specific guidelines for proposal submissions. Unaffiliated scholars may submit abstracts on any research topic relating to American literature. In past years symposia have been held on such subjects as American Indian Theater and Performance, Seafaring Laws in the Works of James Fenimore Cooper, and Grief and Mourning in the Poetry of T.S. Eliot.
Modern Language Association
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The Modern Language Association holds an annual convention each January at which more than 2,000 papers and readings are given by members. Sessions are organized by MLA divisions, discussion groups, individuals, allied organizations and other association committees. Paper proposals should be submitted according to the guidelines and topics of the organizing group. (See Resource 2 for a searchable database of calls for papers.)
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College English Association
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The National College English Association conference is held annually in March. Papers are given by members who must be teachers and scholars in the field of English studies. Its broad areas of inquiry encompass culture, writing, pedagogy and composition. Examples of recent conference topics include "Voices," "Fortunes" and "Journeys." Papers must be no more than fifteen minutes, and abstracts can be submitted electronically or through the mail.
American Council of Learned Societies
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The American Council of Learned Societies holds an annual meeting in May. Representatives from member societies, affiliates, student organizations and members of its board of directors gather to conduct the business of the Council and to present research papers examining recent developments in media, international education and publishing.
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