In October 2023, the Hargrett Library at the University of Georgia purchased a 15th-century French book of hours, bound in a 16th-century embroidered cover and accompanied by a beaded bag. This recent purchase prompts the need to reflect on 300 years of collecting medieval objects—both manuscripts and art—in the American South, a region not known for its medieval holdings.

The symposium addresses the complex history of Southern medievalisms. Researcheres ask: What distinguishes medieval collections in the South? What are their origins? How does the South’s long and complex interest in medievalism intersect with its acquisition of material objects? And how should findings guide the research and teaching of manuscript and art historical studies in the sparse material landscape of the region now?

The symposium will include keynotes from Jessica Brantley (Yale University), Scott Gwara (University of South Carolina), and Elizabeth Pastan (Emory University); presentations by Georgia and regional medievalists; a community outreach event designed to survey local private manuscript holdings; and hands-on interactions with UGA’s medieval holdings.

Brantley will give her presentation on April 4 at 11:30 a.m. in the Special Collections Libraries Auditorium. Scott Gwara will give his presentation on April 4 at 4:30 p.m. at room 265 in Park Hall. This event is made possible through the support of the UGA English Department, the Special Collections Libraries, the Willson Center for Humanities and Arts, Athens-Clarke County Library, and a Centennial Grant from the Medieval Academy of America.

Program and registration: https://shorturl.at/LXvsg. 

Email jds16165@uga.edu with questions.