Who we are

The CRPLA provides a unique forum for cross-departmental enquiry into the intersections between philosophy, literature and the arts. Its goal is to promote theoretical reflection in these subject areas, while drawing on the expertise of subject specialists to put pressure on philosophical assumptions that might otherwise pass unquestioned in ‘philosophy of art,’ ‘philosophy of literature,’ etc. The upshot is genuinely interdisciplinary research that poses new questions and proposes new theories and methodologies.

The departments affiliated to the Centre include Philosophy, English and Comparative Literary Studies, The School of Modern Languages and Cultures, History of Art, Classics, and Film & Television Studies. All members of the University and the wider community are, however, welcome to attend our events.

The Centre is currently run by Co-Directors Eileen JohnLink opens in a new window and James MacDowellLink opens in a new window, with the assistance of the other members of the CRPLA Managing Committee, including representatives of the postgraduate community – see the full list of staff associated with the work of the Centre here.

What we do

The CRPLA has a dynamic programme of eventsLink opens in a new window that promote cross-disciplinary research: we organize regular seminar papers, workshops and reading groups throughout the academic year, while also organizing special lectures and major international conferences. Our annual programme is supplemented by the contributions of distinguished Visiting Scholars. The diversity of the Centre’s research is reflected as well in the list of current and former Associate Fellows.

As a complement to its interdisciplinary research programme, the CRPLA is closely associated with the undergraduate degree in philosophy and literature. Members of the Centre are actively involved in teaching on this degree and on the one-year taught MA in Philosophy and Literature, and contribute to the doctoral programme in Philosophy and Literature.

How to get involved

If you would like to be added to our mailing list please email Gemma dot Basterfield at warwick dot ac dot uk; for all other inquiries about the work of the Centre please email one of the Co-Directors, Eileen John eileen dot john at warwick dot ac dot uk or James MacDowell James dot MacDowell at warwick dot ac dot uk.

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Theodor Adorno Monument in Frankfurt