The L.M. Montgomery Institute's Biennial Conference

The L.M. Montgomery Institute's Biennial Conference, held at the University of Prince Edward Island in Charlottetown, Canada, is set to explore the theme of change as it resonates through L.M. Montgomery's life and work. This gathering aims to analyze how Montgomery, a significant literary figure, engages with the concepts of social, political, and personal change in her writing, as well as the impact of her legacy on contemporary society.The conference features a lineup of esteemed keynote speakers, including Megan Follows, an award-winning actress and director, who will present on the transformative power of Montgomery's character, Anne. Follows' illustrious career includes various accolades, such as the 2020 DGC award for Outstanding Directorial Achievement and multiple awards for her feature film, Stealing the Sky. Another prominent speaker, Katharine Slater, an associate professor at Rowan University, will delve into queer interpretations of Montgomery's work, particularly in her project on sapphic girlhood in young adult literature. Dr. Allison McBain Hudson, a Visiting Scholar at Dublin City University, will discuss the material culture in Montgomery's novels and its significance to her narrative style. The conference invites researchers to propose presentations that explore various aspects of change, including societal shifts during Montgomery's life, the evolution of her literary style, and critical responses to her work over time. Proposals are encouraged to engage with diverse cultural and theoretical perspectives, providing a comprehensive analysis of how Montgomery's narratives interact with themes of change, including environmental shifts, emotional experiences, and the implications of technology in today's world. With sessions livestreamed for broader participation and engagement, the conference promises to be a rich forum for scholarly discussion and exploration of L.M. Montgomery's enduring influence.