From Walls to Signs: Borders in Transnational Perspective

The MLA Discussion Group on Interdisciplinary Approaches to Culture and Society seeks papers for a session on Borders in Transnational Perspective for the 2007 MLA Annual Convention in Chicago from December 27-30, 2007.

Panel Description:
Borders are real, but they are also a construct. A border can be a physical reality linked to a specific space, but it can also be a more intangible reality or sign. And even a tangible border may not be simply tied to a specific place, but may be quite elastic and movable. From the borders in our heads to the complex nature of borders where there are no states to enforce them, a transnational perspective, in which borders are more or less than simply the skin of the nation-state, can cast the analysis of borders in a starkly different light.

We seek papers on any aspect of borders in transnational perspective, with a preference for interdisciplinary or comparative work or papers questioning the notion of place. We are open to all disciplines and methodologies.

Please e-mail an abstract and a c.v. by March, 9, 2007 to:
Bruce Campbell
bbcamp@wm.edu