New Books in Intellectual History

Wan-Chuan Kao, a medievalist specializing in late Middle English literature, delves into the complexities of premodern whiteness in his groundbreaking book. He discusses how concepts like fragility and racialicity shaped identity, drawing parallels with modern issues of race. The conversation includes explorations of texts such as Chaucer's works, the significance of material culture like pearls, and the interplay between whiteness and Christian-Jewish identities. Kao also tackles 'boforeness,' linking historical and contemporary discussions on race and identity politics.

Christina Kiaer, a professor of art history at Northwestern University, dives deep into the life and work of Soviet painter Aleksandr Deineka. She discusses how Deineka's art presents an alternative interpretation of Socialist Realism, focusing on collective experiences rather than totalitarian expression. Kiaer highlights his evolution from avant-garde to state-sponsored artist and how his vibrant depictions evoke a sense of community. The conversation also touches on the complex interplay of art, ideology, and social emotions within the Soviet context.

In this enlightening conversation, John D. Wilsey, a Professor of Church History and Philosophy at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and Senior Fellow at the Center for Religion, Culture, and Democracy, discusses the critical evolution of religious freedom within conservatism. He examines how historical perspectives shape contemporary views, the tension between order and liberty, and significant challenges posed by secular trends. Wilsey emphasizes the necessity of religion in maintaining moral frameworks and social cohesion, while reflecting on America's complex past.

Gregory Castle, an Emeritus professor specializing in the Bildungsroman, joins Sarah L. Townsend, co-founder of the Irish Studies Program, and Matthew L. Resnicek, a medical humanities expert. They explore how Irish writers have transformed the Bildungsroman genre to reflect colonial experiences and evolving identities. Key discussions include the impact of cultural nationalism, the challenges faced by protagonists in their quests for self-education, and the intersection of queer narratives with contemporary Irish identity. The conversation provides fresh insights into a rich literary tradition.

Rhiannon Stephens, a historian at Columbia University with expertise in pre-colonial and early colonial East Africa, dives into the dynamic conceptual history of wealth and poverty in eastern Uganda. She emphasizes that economic thought predates colonialism, reshaping our understanding of inequality. By using comparative historical linguistics, she uncovers the rich linguistic and social narratives surrounding poverty. Stephens explores how climate, gender roles, and societal interactions influenced local perceptions of wealth, revealing a nuanced socio-economic landscape.

Amit Levy, a Spinoza postdoctoral fellow at the University of Haifa, delves into the intersection of German scholarship and Middle Eastern studies in Israel. He examines how Oriental Studies evolved amid the Arab-Jewish conflict, emphasizing scholarly engagement over mere textual study. Levy discusses the founding complexities of the Hebrew University, showcasing interactions between Jewish and Arab intellectuals. He highlights the influence of historical events on academia and the vital role scholars played in cultural diplomacy and the nation-building process in Israel.

William M. Paris, Assistant Professor of Philosophy at the University of Toronto, delves into how time intersects with racial domination and utopian thinking. He illuminates historical figures like Du Bois and Garvey, examining their insights on current injustices. Paris critiques the traditional models of consciousness in social change and highlights the links between historical theories and modern mutual aid. He calls for a redefinition of power and agency in the context of capitalism, emphasizing the need for self-emancipatory practices to envision a more just future.

Asheesh Kapur Siddique, an assistant professor of history at UMass Amherst and author of "The Archive of Empire," dives into how the British Empire utilized archives to govern its vast territories. He discusses the crucial interplay between knowledge management and colonial expansion, revealing how written records shaped political orders. Siddique highlights the evolution of archival practices, the complexity of integrating diverse legal systems, and the transition of archives from secrets to public records, emphasizing their modern implications.

Peter Wien, a Professor of Modern Middle Eastern History at the University of Maryland, explores the intricate world of Arab nationalism. He discusses how historical narratives shape contemporary identities and political dynamics. Wien emphasizes the cultural roots of nationalism through storytelling, literature, and theater, revealing its complexities influenced by colonialism. He dissects the interplay between Arab nationalism, fascism, and anti-Semitism, and examines emerging alternatives in the Arab world. Wien also dives into modern expressions of nationalism, showcasing how cultural connections endure amid crisis.

Kathryn Taylor, Assistant Professor of History at the University of Tennessee Chattanooga, delves into her book on early modern Venice. She discusses how Venetians navigated cultural differences amid global contact, utilizing ethnographic writing to influence state governance over minority populations. The conversation highlights the role of informal observations in shaping cultural understandings and reviews Venice's unique position as a diplomatic hub. Taylor also sheds light on the complexity of ethnographic thought within the social and political frameworks of the time.