Strategies for Convergence: Negotiating the Future of Digital Humanities at Oxford

The rapid development of plans for the Schwarzman Centre increases the urgency of a consensus on the future of the Digital Humanities in Oxford. This two-part event is designed to weave several lines of thinking, established during previous discussions, into a distinctive agenda for the application of digital technology to humanistic research and teaching which places Oxford’s existing strengths on a firm foundation for future development.

 

In the key session after lunch (1:45pm-3:15pm), each of a series of speakers will briefly present those elements of the emerging consensus which related most directly to their institutional position. Further contributions will then be welcome from the floor, followed by less formal discussion over tea and coffee afterwards. Themes to be discussed include the opportunity presented by the Schwarzman Centre, the timetable for seizing this opportunity, the importance of building on our collections, the family resemblance of many of the leading DH project in Oxford, strategies for consolidation, prospects for extra-mural collaboration, and next steps.

 

Before lunch, a warm-up will be provided by the launch of a newly published book in the field: Reassembling the Republic of Letters in the Digital Age, arising from the COST Action chaired by Howard Hotson.  A panel of subject experts will draw out key themes of the book and emphasise its bearing on prospects for DH in Oxford. Those interested can consult the open-access version of the book published online.

 

Interested parties are encouraged to attend one or both of the sessions. A buffet lunch will be served between the two sessions.