Women's History Conference: Women and Religion

Women's History Conference: Women and Religion

9-10 March 2018

Queen's University Belfast

The relationship between women and religion has long been a complex and controversial one. Some women have historically viewed their faith as liberating; other have perceived religion as a more oppressive force. The 2018 Women’s History Conference, in celebration of International Women’s Day, will examine women’s experiences in a variety of religions (not exclusively Christianity) from antiquity to modernity. This international conference seeks to facilitate discussion about how women have expressed and practised their faith in a variety of political and cultural environments throughout the world. It will explore the complex relationship between women and religion through their individual experiences, their involvement in religious institutions and communities, or their dealings with religion through law and the political state.

We welcome proposals for 20 minute papers on this theme of women and religion from a variety of disciplines. Abstracts from postgraduate and early career researchers are particularly welcome.

Possible themes may include, but are not limited to:

• Women in religious orders
• Oppression or liberation of women through religion
• Women and spirituality
• Religion’s role in community formation among women
• Women, sexuality, and religion
• Religious writings of women
• Women and missionary work

Abstracts of 250 words along with a proposed title and brief biographical note should be submitted by 15 December 2017 to iwdconference2018@gmail.com. Any enquiries may be sent to the same address.    

Conference organisers: Karie Schultz, Lauren Browne, and Claire McNulty