Interview with Isabelle Moulin, with additional comments from Alain De Libera.
Why the creation of an Institute of Medieval Studies at the Catholic University of Paris? Which are its main objectives of research?
The Institute of Medieval Studies at the Catholic University of Paris is dedicated for promoting research on medieval thought, as seen in continuity with late antique thought, on the one hand, and with renaissance and early modern philosophy, on the other.
Members of the Institute are particularly interested in evaluating the historical development of theological and philosophical knowledges, whether through the transmission of specific ideas or texts, or in connection with certain institutions. Associates also seek to contribute to the scholarly understanding of key issues, such as the relationships between science, philosophy, theology, and faith, and between different paradigms of human rationality or religious traditions.
For whom is the Institute intended?
The Institute of Medieval Studies wishes to recreate a “civitas philosophorum” taken in a broad sense, in memory of the development of the University of Paris in the Late Middle Ages. The Institute wishes to promote strong interdisciplinary discussions among scholars and is not devoted solely to philosophers, but is open to theologians, historians, and art specialists. Its members and its invited scholars are welcome to build strong regular and a relationship within the Institute ; as well as with the international community and the diverse institutions to which they belong.
Due to its privileged situation within the Catholic University of Paris, the Institute of Medieval Studies is also devoted to promoting research within the student community, especially for the graduates, but also for any student who has a real interest in the medieval period. The annual seminar provides a context in which they are welcome to listen to lectures, ask questions, and work within the group. They are also invited to special research events as well as the annual colloquium.
The inaugural colloquium at the Catholic University of Paris takes place on June 25th. What is its focus?
June 25th is a fundamental date for the Institute of Medieval Studies because on that day the inaugural session of its foundation will take place. The purpose of the international colloquia that will take place each year is to create a dialogue between the medieval period and modernity, as is exemplified in the first colloquium entitled, “After Metaphysics : Augustine?”. Indeed, this year the different presentations of diverse renowned specialists in the field of metaphysics will help settle the question whether Augustine’s thought can be considered as to open a post-metaphysical age, as Professor Jean-Luc Marion has suggested in his last works.
What will be the future activities of the Institute of Medieval Studies?
The Institute of Medieval Studies offers, as of the coming year, several activities meant to cover all aspects of Medieval Studies.
The research seminar, which will take place once a year, will promote interaction between invited scholars and doctoral students. The theme for next year, “Philosophy and Theology in John Scot Eriugena”, promises to open innovative historical, philosophical, and theological perspectives. The seminar aims at publishing resources in the field of medieval studies (anthologies, short monographs, etc.).
In addition to the research seminar, the Institute plans to hold two conferences for work-in-progress. The conferences will bring together ordinary and associate members of the Institute, as well as invited researchers.
The proceedings of the annual colloquium, when appropriate, will be released. This year, the proceedings will be published by the PUF (French Press University).
