Shakespeare and Shakespearean Criticism (MMLA 2026 Convention)
Chicago, IL
Organization: Midwest Modern Language Association
Event: MMLA 2026 Convention
MMLA 2026 Convention Theme: "After the Archive" (https://mmla.memberclicks.net/call-for-papers)
Meeting Dates: 12-14 November 2026
Meeting Location: voco Chicago Downtown (350 W Wolf Point Plaza)
Presentation Length: 15 Minutes (7-8 Double-Spaced Pages)
Submission Materials: 250-Word Abstract and CV
Submission Deadline: April 25, 2026
The Shakespeare and Shakespearean Criticism permanent section of the MMLA seeks abstracts of 250 words that offer a fresh, critical perspective on Shakespeare’s poetry or drama. Abstracts that speak to or explore the Convention theme, “After the Archive,” in relation to Shakespeare are especially welcome but are not required. Potential topics include (but are certainly not limited to): literary, cinematic, and/or theatrical adaptations; textual variance among the quartos/folios; Shakespeare in translation; connections with or to fellow playwrights; pedagogical approaches in higher education; Shakespeare and the so-called “Canon;” meaningful rhetoric and/or metaphors; connections to the socio-political milieu of early modern England; witchcraft and magic; representations of disability, race, or sex, on the page and/or on the stage, etc.
Please Note: Due to excessive costs, the MMLA will be unable to supply AV equipment needed to support PowerPoints or slide projections at the 2026 Convention. All presenters may supplement presentations with visual aids in the form of pre-printed handouts, QR codes that direct audience members to an online slideshow or set of images, etc.
The requisite materials must be submitted to Krislyn Zhorne (kzhorne@luc.edu) before the aforementioned deadline.
https://mmla.memberclicks.net/permanent-sections
Krislyn Zhorne