6th Annual Mediterranean Studies Symposium
"Mediterranean Folklore and Cultural Memories"
June 6–7, 2026
Alghero, Sardinia
CALL FOR PAPERS: DEADLINE NOV. 1, 2025
The Mediterranean is entrenched with myths and legends that recount and “explain” the heritage of the region and shape local culture and daily life from the Odyssey to Metamorphosis, from One Thousand and One Nights to various epic tales of gods, heroes, monsters and “wise” characters that seem to change name but not role, across many countries throughout the region. Sardinia, the second largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, which hosts our upcoming symposium, is no exception. With its mythology rooted in the Nuragic civilization and fairy-like beings like the Janas and beast-like figures like the Cogas, the island is a treasure trove of tales, which are clearly reflected in the culture of the place. It is suggested that the island’s name itself derives from its mythological hero Sardus Pater. Nobel Prize winning Sardinian author Grazia Deledda confirms the intrinsic presence of outwardly creatures in this breathtaking part of the region:
"The moon rose before him, and evening voices told him the day had ended: a cuckoo's rhythmical cry, the early crickets' chirping, a bird calling; the reeds sighing and the ever more distant voice of the river; but most of all a breathing, a mysterious panting that seemed to come from the earth itself. Yes, man's working day was done, but the fantastic life of elves, fairies, wandering spirits was beginning." (Reeds in the Wind, 1913)
We are seeking papers on any topic related to folklore or folklore studies, paying particular attention to the interplay between tradition, memory and imagination, including but not limited to the following: folklore and popular culture, folklore and media, folklore and art, folklore and religion, folklore and gender, folklore and children, folklore and identity, folklore and storytelling, folklore and trauma/trauma studies, folklore and memory/memory studies. Any historical period of reference is welcome. Presentations of recently published books on the Mediterranean are also welcome IF related to this year’s topic.
This symposium will take place June 6–7, 2026 in Quarté Sayàl, located in Alghero, Sardinia. The complex is situated in Via Garibaldi, 10 meters from the beach and a stone's throw from the center of the oldest part of town. Its schedule will consist of educational and cultural activities alongside presentations, lively discussions and group meals. The official language is English, even though each session’s Q&A may be conducted in the language most comfortable for all parties involved. Since the organizers would like to create an informal and conducive atmosphere of dialogue and brainstorming, the number of proposals accepted is restricted.
PRICING
The Symposium fee is 180€ for faculty members and 95€ for graduate students and includes (full face-to-face participation):
- Program instruction and materials;
- Symposium facilities with staff support and coffee breaks;
- Educational and cultural activities;
- Welcome reception and closing dinner.
Send 250-word abstract along with a title and a 50-word bio to Drs. Rosario Pollicino and Giovanna Summerfield by Nov 1, 2025. Upon the end of the symposium, selected essays will be invited for publication in English.