KALAMAZOO, Mich. Medieval scholars from around the world will meet virtually from
Monday through Saturday, May 10 to 15, for the 56th celebration of the Western Michigan University International Congress on Medieval Studies.
Typically held on campus but moved to a virtual format during the COVID-19 pandemic, the event is hosted by Western s Medieval Institute and has attracted professional scholars, most with university appointments; students; independent scholars; librarians; museum curators and other medieval studies enthusiasts.
Session topics this year range from historical sword fighting, reflections on the death of saint and martyr Thomas Becket, language and writing in the eastern Mediterranean and the study of past pandemics. The sessions are in a variety of formats, many taking the form of a series of academic paper presentations. Others are panel discussions, roundtables, demonstrations and workshops.