Call for Papers

The 14^th International Conference on Middle English (ICOME-14) will take place in Zurich at Schloss Au. As always, this conference will bring together scholars working on all aspects of the Middle English language and literature, encompassing variation and change, textual and manuscript studies, literary and cultural perspectives, language contact, pragmatics, and narratology. 

The theme of ICOME-14 is "Travel and Travelling". We encourage papers dealing with any aspect of the theme including but not limited to: 

• Middle English lexis of travel 

• Medieval English travellers  and  travel writing

• Important journeys and pilgrim routes

• Travelling texts and manuscripts 

Submissions on other topics related to Middle English studies are also welcome.

Moreover, we will host a round table dedicated to teaching Middle English and organise an excursion to Einsiedeln, where participants will visit the Abbey and walk a stretch of the Way of St. James, following in the footsteps of medieval pilgrims.

Conference Formats: 

• Plenary lectures 

• Panels 

• Round tables 

• Workshops 

• Posters 

If you would like to organise a workshop or panel dedicated to a particular topic, please get in touch with us to discuss your ideas (icome2026@es.uzh.ch). The deadline for proposals for workshops and panels is 31 May 2025.

Call for workshop / panel / round table proposals: 31 May 2025 

Abstract submission will open in June 2025.

Abstract submission deadline: 30 September 2025 

Notification of acceptance: 15 December 2025

Early bird registration: 1 February–30 April 2026 

Late registration: 1–21 May 2026 

Abstracts should be submitted by 30 September 2025 via the following link: Abstract submission ICOME-14. Please ensure your abstract does not exceed 400 words (excluding references). 

For inquiries, please contact the organizing committee: 
Email: icome2026@es.uzh.ch

We look forward to welcoming you to Zurich for a stimulating exchange of ideas on Middle English studies!