About us
The Centre for Regional Literature and Culture brings together a cohort of single and multi-disciplinary researchers and creative writers in the School of English working on diverse aspects of literary history and culture, with a particular focus on the intersection of literature in all its forms with local, regional and national cultures.
We collaborate with researchers in allied fields within and beyond the University of Nottingham, foster connections with partners in the creative, cultural and heritage sectors, and host a regular series of events, including two inter-disciplinary seminar series, regular public talks and lectures, and a number of reading groups.
What does the CRLC research?
We work across a variety of research methodologies and practices, including: text editing; book-history; cultural geography; individual author studies; collaborative digital humanities; and enhancing public understanding through citizen scholarship and cultural and heritage engagement. Many of our members are active participants in the literary culture of Nottingham, UNESCO City of Literature, and the East Midlands more widely.
Our specialisms include:
- Writing and the local (especially D.H. Lawrence)
- Regional and national literary cultures (especially Ireland, Scotland, East Midlands, the Lake District)
- Space and place
- Cultural geography
- Translating cultures
- Literary recoveries
Why is this research important?
Looking beyond the canonical and the metropolitan, our research recovers and re-interprets marginal and overlooked texts and authors, casting new light on familiar literary traditions. We explore the intersections of place, identity and literary culture at every level, enabling individuals and institutions to trace particular strands of local, regional and national literary histories.
Our work with partner organisations translates our research into practice, providing intellectual and operational blueprints for the revival and preservation of regional heritages.
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Our research and impact strategy
The CRLC conducts outstanding and scholarly research that has a positive and transformational impact on culture, heritage and education. We do this through:
- encouraging and providing facilities for postgraduate study in all aspects of regional literatures and cultures
- collaborating with culture and heritage organisations and providing expert consultation on issues of cultural heritage and preservation
- promoting textual scholarship, literary history and new work in creative writing, criticism and cultural heritage.
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