Body and Religion Unit
In anticipation of the American Academy of Religion’s June 2024 virtual conference, the Body and Religion Unit is seeking proposals for a joint session with the Contemporary Pagan Studies Unit on, “Divine Bodies.” Bodies presenting and re-presenting sacrality in both ancient and modern contexts are ripe for analysis. Topics may include but are not limited to shaping, sizing, theriomorphism, hierophanics, kratophanics, iconographic stratifications/layering, planar extension, absence/concealment, accessorizing, co-location, tellurism, chthonics, gendering, and substance/makeup. Diachronic and synchronic approaches are both encouraged, along with artifactual/material culture, discursive and hermeneutical analysis. We especially welcome panels/presentations using innovative formats that will enhance discussion and collaboration in an online environment.
Statement of Purpose
This Unit aims to draw together scholars working with different methodologies who address body and embodiment as a fundamental category of analysis in the study of religion. The Unit provides a forum for sustained discussion and critique of diverse approaches to body and religion by scholars working on a wide range of traditions, regions, and eras.
Journal
The Body and Religion Unit launched the peer-reviewed journal, Body and Religion, through Equinox, in 2017. We invite papers for submission on a rolling basis, including papers presented on panels hosted by, but not limited to, the Body and Religion Unit. Journal Homepage: https://journal.equinoxpub.com/BAR
Steering Committee Membership
Those who take on the responsibilities of being steering committee members will participate in decision-making processes for the annual call for papers, respond to unit communication, and read, rank, and comment on submitted proposals in March. If a steering committee member finds that they are not able to fulfill these tasks in a given year, they should communicate with the co-chairs. If a steering committee member cannot participate in this work, the co-chairs may replace them.