Translation bridges eras and cultures
09/22/2026How were texts translated in the early modern period – and what does this tell us about the coexistence of different cultures? A public conference in Würzburg on 9 and 10 October will take stock of eight years of research.
A celebratory closing conference at the University of Würzburg marks the conclusion of the Schwerpunktprogramm (priority programme) ‘Translation Cultures of the Early Modern Period’, funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) and led by Regina Toepfer, holder of the Chair of Early German Philology.
On 9 and 10 October, researchers will gather in Würzburg to present and discuss the findings from eight years of collaborative research. Attendance at the entire event is free of charge. Those interested can register by 1 October by emailing spp2130@uni-wuerzburg.de.
The programme kicks off on Friday 9 October with welcoming addresses and a review of the research programme. A keynote lecture will explore the comparison and translation of languages and narratives, using early modern foreign-language textbooks as examples. In the evening, visitors can look forward to a special cultural highlight: the ensemble La Protezione della Musica, conducted by Jeroen Finke, will present the concert ‘O Amarilli – Song Culture of the Baroque in Europe’, which brings song translations to life.
The full programme (PDF)
Translation as the key to understanding
This thematic programme examines the significance of translation for societies between 1450 and 1800. It is not merely concerned with how texts were transferred from one language to another. Rather, the focus is on the question of what ideas about humanity, society and coexistence were formed and passed on through such translation processes.
Translation played a vital role in the exchange of knowledge and ideas during the Early Modern period. The invention of the printing press, expanding trade links and the growing multilingualism of Europe fostered the spread and professionalisation of translation. At the same time, contacts between different regions and cultures gave rise to new forms of cultural exchange.
From Ovid to Luther
On Saturday 10 October, the programme will include discussions on 16th-century translations of Ovid and Luther, as well as cultural translation in the Early Modern period. To round off the event, there will be an opportunity to take part in a guided tour of the Würzburg Residence or the Martin von Wagner Museum.
Established in 2018, this specialisation programme brings together various perspectives from the field of cultural studies. It examines translation, amongst other things, as a linguistic and media phenomenon, as part of the development of knowledge and social ideas, and as an expression of contacts between different cultures.
Contact
Annkathrin Koppers, Secretariat of SPP 2130 Translation Cultures of the Early Modern Period, T +49 931 31 84288, spp2130@uni-wuerzburg.de
