Oral Literature in Modern China

Call for papers
The transformation of the Chinese society at the end of the 20th century is reflected by changes in the area of human communications and performance. During the proposed workshop we wish to discuss -- from an interdisciplinary approach -- questions relating to the development of oral literature in China in former times and in this century, especially in recent years. How have orality and literacy intermingled in the transmission and performance of the oral traditions? Are the oral arts basically transformed by the modern media -- and in which way? How do modern communication and information technologies influence these age-old traditions? Are they dying out, or will they survive -- eventually in other forms -- in the modern society?
Under the main heading 'The Eternal Chinese Storyteller', we want to invite papers on a wide range of questions pertaining to the field of oral literature in China. The workshop will bring together scholars in the field and Chinese storytellers. Sessions of scholarly papers and discussions will be combined with performances by artists from China. The languages of the workshop are English and Chinese.
The deadline for applications is 1 March 1996.

All enquiries, including paper and panel proposals, should be directed to the address below:

Vibeke Børdahl
Ramstadaasveien 19
1322 Høvik
Norway
Tel/Fax: +47-67123881