In 2009, the 175th anniversary of the death of radical orator, writer, theorist and activist John Thelwall (1764-1834), we gather to celebrate his remarkable legacy, and extend the circle of those who have risen to the challenge that his theory and practice offer our research, our teaching and our lives. This conference invites papers on any aspect of Thelwall’s wide-ranging arts and acts (medical, political, elocutionary, literary, journalistic, peripatetic etc). Since Thelwall challenges us to practise what we profess, papers that cross boundaries between theory and practice are particularly welcome, as are those that explore Thelwall’s legacy, and/or transatlantic connections. The conference is hosted in Halifax, birthplace of representative government and freedom of the press in Canada, and a colourful 18th-century transatlantic port with several universities and a dynamic arts scene. In conjunction with the conference, Dalhousie Theatre Productions will stage a full-scale performance of one of Thelwall’s plays.

Judith Thompson
Dept. of English
Dalhousie University
Halifax, Nova Scotia
ph: (902)494-6945
fax: (902)494-2176
Email: judith.thompson@dal.ca