The Medieval Caucasus Network are seeking papers for a strand at the next International Medieval Congress, which will be held on the 5th to 8th July 2027, covering notions of communal identity within and connected to the Caucasus region.
Paper abstracts approaching any aspect of the archaeology, cultures, faiths, societies, economies, and politics of the Caucasus throughout the approximate period from 500- 1500 AD, and which touch in some way upon the theme of communal identity, will be considered. This could include historiographical perceptions of communities, such as ethnic, geographical, or religious communities; processes of community formation and/ or disintegration; the material culture of given communities; processes of group identification, whether by themselves or others; or intra- and inter-communal relationships, friendships, and conflicts.
We welcome proposals from academics at all career stages, including independent scholars: we particularly welcome proposals from scholars from the region and those from marginalised backgrounds. Where possible we will provide assistance to scholars who need funding to attend the IMC in looking for appropriate resources. IMC 2027 sessions will be held in hybrid format such that, where necessary, presentation and attendance should be available to scholars without travel to Leeds.
Please email your proposal to John Latham-Sprinkle (john.latham-sprinkle@vub.be) by no later than 17 September 2026, with an abstract of 100-250 words. Your proposal should state whether you would like to seek additional funding with the assistance of the Medieval Caucasus Network in order to attend.