Event overview
Goldsmiths Literature Seminar
Benjamin Woolley (Creative Writing, Goldsmiths): 'What is History doing in Fiction?'
Since the invention of the modern form with Walter Scott’s Waverley, historical fiction has felt the need to explain itself. Almost a defining feature of the genre is the use of ‘paratexts’—prefaces, authors’ notes, acknowledgements—to justify the use of historical research in works of imagination and invention.
In this paper, Benjamin will look at some of these paratexts to see what they tell us about the relationship of history to fiction. He will draw on this to reflect on writing the Angel of Ferrara, his first novel, comparing the experience to writing works of history and biography. Benjamin will critically examine the argument that postmodern thinking has demonstrated that the notion of a borderline between the realms of fact and fiction is spurious. This idea will be challenged through the argument that, while both history and biography influence one other, the distinction should be considered one of type rather than degree.
Benjamin Woolley's presentation will be followed by:
Sophie Ward (Creative Writing, Goldsmiths): 'Studies in Consciousness and the Novel: How Philosophy of the Mind Engages with Literary Fiction'
Sophie Ward is currently writing a PhD in Creative Writing, the working title for which is 'Imagine I Am, The Use of Narrative in Philosophical Thought Experiments'. As part of her PhD project, she is writing a novel based on a series of interlinked short stories, each based on a philosophical thought experiment.
In this paper, Sophie will speak about narrative and philosophy, particularly thought experiments, and read a short story from the book which will be her PhD, entitled 'Sunbed'.
For more info, contact Tanguy Harma:
tharm009@gold.ac.uk
Dates & times
| Date | Time | Add to calendar |
|---|---|---|
| 27 Nov 2014 | 6:30pm - 8:00pm |
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