Society for Classical Studies 157th Annual Meeting
JANUARY 7-10, 2026
SAN FRANCISCO
Call for Papers for Panel Sponsored by the American Society of Greek and Latin Epigraphy
Epigraphy and Power
Organized by Laura Gawlinski (Loyola University Chicago)
The American Society of Greek and Latin Epigraphy invites proposals for papers for its panel “Epigraphy and Power” at the 2026 meeting of the Society for Classical Studies in San Francisco (7–10 January). We seek contributions that engage with the role of inscribed texts of all kinds in forming, supporting, or subverting systems of power. Monumental tribute lists asserted the dominance of Athens, imperial authority spread through the Roman empire through official inscriptions, and dedications in sanctuaries testified to the power of the gods. Epigraphy also attests to power discourse as seen in the deliberate placement of texts or public graffiti.
Topics may include but are not limited to:
- inscriptions as tools for the administration of legal or imperial structures
- how the materiality, permanence, or monumentality of texts communicates power
- contestations of power through erasure, removal, or (re)arrangement
- graffiti as expressions of empowerment or subversion
- writing used by subaltern populations
Please send abstracts that follow the guidelines for individual abstracts (see the SCS Guidelines for Authors of Abstracts) by email to Laura Gawlinski (Loyola University Chicago) at lgawlinski@luc.edu by February 14, 2025.
Please ensure that the abstracts are anonymous.
Two ASGLE reviewers will evaluate all submissions anonymously, and the decision will be communicated to the authors of abstracts by April 1, 2025, with enough time that those whose abstracts are not chosen can participate in the individual abstract submission process for the upcoming SCS meeting. Please note that authors submitting abstracts must be SCS members in good standing and will need to register for the 2026 meeting.