Scholars in Progress, May 26: James Macpherson’s Ossian

Dear all,

Our next Scholars in Progress session will take place on Thursday, 26 May from 3-4 pm EST/8-9 pm BST in this zoom room. We will be discussing and offering feedback on Vanessa K. Iacocca 's paper "James Macpherson’s Ossian: A New Model for Political Dialogue.”  To receive a copy of the paper to read before the session, please email ncsagradcaucus@gmail.com.

Vanessa is a PhD candidate in English at Purdue University. “Ossianic medievalisms" are deliberately reinvented medieval pasts attached to national identity formation that were precipitated by Scottish author James Macpherson’s Ossian Poems (1760-1765).

Vanessa has offered readers a set of questions to consider as they read the paper and prepare their feedback:

• Are the components of “Ossianic medievalism” explained clearly enough? Are they demonstrated sufficiently in my discussion of Ossian? 
• Are there any points that need further elaboration? Would readers benefit from more context in any sections? 
• Are there any places where my argument’s larger implications need further discussion? 

We will also use the first 10-15 minutes of the meeting to introduce ourselves, get to know one another, and network. Our last presenter, Jesse Chariton of Iowa State University, will then deliver a brief comment on the paper before we ask Vanessa questions.

Scholars-in-Progress values an atmosphere of collegiality and productivity. Though we encourage critical feedback, therefore, it should further the goals of alliance and collaboration. The session will be recorded and made available on the NCSA website for NCSA members.  Attending the zoom session signals your willingness to be included in the recording.  If you do not wish to appear in the video, you can also attend and keep your camera off.

Lastly, if you wish to submit your own work-in-progress for our next paper discussion session, please feel free to get in touch at ncsagradcaucus@gmail.com.

We're looking forward to seeing you online on Thursday the 26th!

With best wishes,

The NCSA Graduate Caucus