Call for Papers
Marginalities in the Insular Worlds of North-Western Europe (8th –13th c.)
FRIDAY, 12 JUNE 2026
UNIVERSITY OF CAEN / CRAHAM (FRANCE)
Due by 7 November 2025
The CRAHAM invite proposals for papers for a conference exploring the theme of marginalities in the insular worlds of North-Western Europe from the 8th to 13th centuries. This event aims to foster critical analysis of the processes, identities and representations that may have contributed to defining, structuring or even blurring the boundaries of inclusion and exclusion in medieval insular societies, with a particular emphasis on Britain and Ireland.
We are seeking contributions grounded in historical, literary, archaeological and/or interdisciplinary approaches that interrogate the experiences and perceptions of those situated at the margins of medieval society, whether socially, culturally, ideologically, or economically.
We strongly encourage analyses that approach marginality through the lens of intersectionality, recognising how multiple, overlapping identities shaped unique experiences at the margins. Contributors may also wish to question both the degree of marginalisation, exploring the spectrum from partial exclusion to profound social isolation. They may also consider the necessity or function of marginalised people within medieval societies.
Subjects may include (but are not limited to):
Gendered and sexual marginalities
Religious minorities, non-conformist spiritualities
Migrants, exiles
Individuals marginalized by the law
Disabilities (physical, mental, cognitive, psychological, sensory)
Marginal voices in legal, literary, or documentary sources
Representations of difference and exclusion
Networks and strategies of adaptation among marginal groups
Proposals (200 words maximum) as well as a short CV and a biography should be sent to sarah.vincent@unicaen.fr and to jocelyn.coulon@unicaen.fr before 7 November 2025. Informal inquiries are also welcome. Please note that the presentations will last 30 minutes and will be followed by a 15-minutes time for questions. We are aiming for publishing the papers in a French medieval studies journal. Priority will be given to in-person presentations. Accommodation and meals will be provided for confirmed speakers, but travel costs should be covered by your own institution.
We invite scholars at all stages, particularly early career researchers and PhD students, to contribute to a dynamic dialogue that will expand, challenge, and enrich current perspectives on marginalities in medieval insular worlds. We look forward to receiving innovative proposals and to fostering meaningful intellectual exchanges in Caen.
For a PDF of the call for papers, click here.