Posted on 13 August 2014
Taking place on the 6th September in the Council Chamber of the National Library of Wales, Dwy iaith, dau ddiwylliant? Two languages, two cultures? is a day of discussions and presentations bringing together established and early-career scholars (including postgraduates) to explore some of the difficulties involved in working through both Welsh and English.
Organised by the Centre for Advanced Welsh and Celtic Studies (CAWCS), and funded by the British Academy, this is a free event delivered in both Welsh and English with simultaneous translation.
Many Welsh writers from the period 1750-1820 lived and worked daily through both languages; their writings draw on and express two traditions, literary and historical. Research over the last ten years has begun to explore the fascinating connections, disjunctions and dialogues between them. Yet, for historical reasons, few universities in Wales are able to offer Romantic-period specialists opportunities to work and teach through both languages: Welsh and English departments offer distinct syllabuses, and may even be in separate Schools.
As a result much primary research falls between departments and teaching modules: the cultural cross-fertilizations (and indeed the entire oeuvres of some writers) of this rich and stimulating period of Welsh literary history are masked, distorted or overlooked. PhD students of this period, working with both languages, find it difficult to get teaching experience and do not always find places in Welsh universities; nor does research relevant to both languages always reach its widest possible audience .
This event will bring together scholars from Welsh, English and History departments at different stages of their careers to hear their experiences and to discuss a number of key questions . The event will include a key-note contribution by Professor Damian Walford Davies (Cardiff) and is supported by Professor M. Wynn Thomas FBA and the Learned Society of Wales.
Confirmed speakers: Professor M. Wynn Thomas, Professor Damian Walford Davies, Dr Robin Chapman, Dr Marion Löffler, Dr Mary-Ann Constantine, Dr Elizabeth Edwards, Dr Bethan Jenkins, and Dr Mary Chadwick.
Please register before 15 August - email a.elias@wales.ac.uk or visit http://www.wales.ac.uk/en/CentreforAdvancedWelshCelticStudies/NewsEvents/Events.aspx