“The Years That Followed”: The Afterlives of Lord Byron
2025 International Byron Conference to be held in Pisa at the University Congress Centre “Le Benedettine”
30 June – 5 July 2025
Centro Congressuale “Le Benedettine”
Piazza San Paolo a Ripa d’Arno, 16
56125 Pisa
In the wake of Lord Byron’s bicentenary, scholars and enthusiasts will gather in the historic city of Pisa for the 49th International Association of Byron Societies’ Conference! Set against the backdrop of a city that once hosted the poet himself, this significant event will take place from June 30 to July 5, 2025, bringing together minds from across the globe to examine Byron’s enduring influence from 1824 to the present day.
The conference aims to explore Byron’s multifaceted legacy, delving into his perspectives on historical, political, personal, and spiritual futurity. Participants will investigate not only Byron’s own views on posterity but also the remarkable place he and his works have held in culture and literature since his death, both in Britain, Greece, and the far-reaching landscapes of the international world.
The rich program features keynote addresses by Diego Saglia, Mark Sandy, and Mirka Horová, presentations from many throughout our community, engaging panel discussions and roundtables, complemented by an array of cultural events. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to visit sites of significance to Byron and other English Romantics, including tours of Bagni di Lucca, Bagni di Pisa, Lerici, and San Terenzo. The experience will be further enhanced by musical performances, exhibitions, and poetry readings that celebrate Byron’s lasting impact.
Call for Papers
The Organizing Committee welcomes 250-word proposals for both individual 20-minute presentations and roundtable discussions. Research topics may span a broad spectrum, including Byronic prophecies, his views on death and afterlife, political influence, cultural legacy, translation and global reception, media representations, and Anglo-Italian connections. The conference particularly encourages critical explorations of Byron’s legacy in all its transnational and interdisciplinary dimensions.
Interested scholars should submit their proposals, along with a short biographical note of approximately 150 words, by January 20, 2025. Roundtable session proposals should include a description of the topic and a list of participants with their biographical information. For further information or to submit proposals, please contact the Organizing Committee at info@iabsconferencepisa2025.com. The submission portal will open soon through the conference website.
This gathering promises to be a significant contribution to Byron studies, offering new perspectives on one of literature’s most compelling figures in a setting that played a crucial role in his own creative journey.
Find out more on their website: https://www.iabsconferencepisa2025.com/