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| Kalamazoo in May (detail). Image: Yin Liu, 2013. |
The
International Medieval Congress held annually in
Kalamazoo, Michigan is well-known by all of its regular attendees for being a
unique combination of rigorous scholarship, expertise, and answer-seeking
tainted with ribaldry, camaraderie, and an incorrigible excitement for books
and imbibing. This year, May 2015, marked the 50
th anniversary since
the congress’ inception. I was fortunate enough to attend, playing the part of
an envoy on behalf of the Medieval Codes project from the University of Saskatchewan.
Approximately 3,000 medieval scholars gather at the congress which itself
features more than 550 sessions of papers, panel discussions, round tables,
workshops, and performances. Evening meetings and receptions are sponsored by academic
institutions and societies. Nearly 70 exhibitors, including publishers, used
book dealers, as well as artists and craftsmen fill the exhibits hall with
their wares.
