IMC 2006: Sessions

Abstract paper -a: The medieval Spanish and Sephardic Romancero exhibit a variety of formulaic questions addressed mainly by the husband / brother / father / or lover to the young wife, daughter, or lover concerning the sudden change of her facial complexion and demeanor. This mainly accusatory inquiry is rebuffed by the female protagonist, but mostly masks euphemistically an illicit sexual act which often ends in tragic note. Based on gynaecological and medieval treatises, and use of color and gesture symbolism, this paper will explore the artistic, scientific function, and structure of this formula in the vast Judeo-Spanish ballad repertory.

Abstract paper -b: Is virtue a question of inner motive or merely physical performance? For princesses, Christine de Pisan appears to think it almost exclusively the latter. Her Livre de Trois Vertus frankly advocates hypocrisy when necessary: deferring with curtseys and soft speeches to a hot-headed and incompetent prince, flattering his relatives with welcoming words, smiling and whispering supposed secrets to backstabbing court gossips. With few exceptions - the genuine love demanded towards God and towards the poor and sickly - Christine sees virtuous gestures, tones, and facial expressions as merely the means to gain and maintain power while playing a public role of meekness.

Abstract paper -c: This paper examines the character and function of Emelye in Chaucer’s Knight’s Tale. Specifically, I analyse the extent to which Emelye is allowed a distinct subjectivity within the scope of the tale, how her interior life is regulated and to what purpose. Some critics argue that Emelye functions as the subjective and ideological center of the text, and, thus, that she possesses a fully articulated, if subtly covert, subjectivity. I maintain that it is the delimitation of her interior life, not its full articulation, which makes possible the rest of the interactions within the tale.