Reflections of a Militarised World ? - Perceptions and conceptions of war and the military in the early Middle Ages (ca. 500-1000)
Since the end of Antiquity, the societies of western Europe underwent a continual process of militarisation. This process intensified during the early Middle Ages, and came to be a defining characteristic of the period. Militarisation can be identified by the lack of demarcation between the martial and civil spheres of the population, weapons becoming increasingly widespread and warlike attributes, activities, and values being widely recognised and respected. Militarisation also impacted on how members of early medieval societies perceived their worldly position.
The idea of this conference is to take a close look at contemporary ways to perceive and to think about war and the military and to discuss what conclusions may be drawn from these findings with regard to contemporary society. Questions that may be raised include but should not be limited to the concept and significance of war and peace, the terminology used to refer to praiseworthy and blameworthy qualities and abilities in a (potential) fighting man, the concept of maleness, heroism and warriorhood, the significance and legitimacy of military participation and the symbolism of weaponry.
The organisers are pleased to invite young researchers on a doctoral or post-doctoral level working on related fields to submit a proposal for a paper of up to 30 minutes as an abstract of approximately 400 words, together with a brief CV.
The organisers seek to invite up to four successful applicants to participate at the conference (Hotel accommodation, meals and a reimbursement of up to 300 Euro to cover travel expenses to Berlin will be provided).
Submissions should be sent to Laury Sarti (laury.sarti@fu-berlin.de). You will be notified of your paper acceptance or non-acceptance before the end of January 2017.
The conference language will be English.
Conference Venue: Friedrich-Meinecke-Institut der Freien Universität Berlin, Koserstraße 20, 14195 Berlin
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Contact:
Dr. Laury Sarti
Friedrich-Meinecke-Institut der Freien Universität Berlin
+49 30 838 59214