Humanities scholars examine the seven deadly sins

The next generation of academics from the School of English, Media Studies and Art History (EMSAH) will present their research at the annual Work in Progress Conference at St Lucia next month.

This year’s conference — The Seven Deadly Sins: Critical and Creative Contexts — has also attracted delegates from interstate and abroad, with Dr Adrian Martin from Monash University delivering the keynote address on the evening of September 2.

On September 3, Dr Martin will also participate in an arts criticism discussion panel with UQ experts including Associate Professor Rex Butler, Professor David Carter, Associate Professor Jason Jacobs and Dr Melissa Harper.

All of the papers at the conference are presented by postgraduate students or early career researchers, and revolve around the seven deadly sins theme.

Some examine representations of the sins in literature, film, theatre, and television, while others focus on the theoretical frameworks that inform our understanding of that which we call “sinful”.

The best paper delivered by a UQ delegate will also be awarded the inaugural Dr John McCulloch Memorial Prize.

The prize is named in honour of the late Dr John McCulloch, a former EMSAH student and staff member who passed away last year shortly after submitting his PhD thesis.

Dr McCulloch made significant contributions to the University as a student, researcher and tutor, and convened the WIP Conference in 2007. He was also the recipient of an Order of Australia Medal for services to youth in 2000.

The 15th annual Work In Progress Conference will take place at St Leo’s College from September 2 to 3. For further information contact uq.wip2011@gmail.com

Media: Rowena Grant-Frost (r.grantfrost@uq.edu.au>)