Call for papers

Call for papers

What do we mean when we speak of “comparison”? What are the possibilities and the limitations of comparative work in Sinology, both historically and in the present? What is comparable, and how or why should we compare at all? This conference invites renewed reflection on comparative methods and epistemologies in Chinese studies, drawing on both historical practices and contemporary critical perspectives.

We welcome proposals for individual papers and panel sessions from across the Humanities within Chinese Studies. Submissions that engage directly with comparative methodologies, materials, or case studies are particularly encouraged. Possible areas of focus include, but are not limited to:

• Linguistics: Theoretical and applied linguistics, linguistic typology, historiography of linguistics. 
• Literature: Comparative poetics, reception studies, translation theories. 
• History: Transcultural historiography, global connections, comparative empires. 
• Cultural Studies: Diaspora communities, folk/vernacular cultures, subcultures. 
• Film & Media: Cross-cultural adaptations, visual semiotics, streaming platforms. 
• Communication Studies: Intercultural dialogue, digital discourses, propaganda/rhetoric. 
• Religious Studies.

Instructions for abstract submissions:

Individual abstracts (200-250 words) should be submitted in a Word document and must include the paper title, the author’s name and affiliation, email address, and a brief bio.

Panel proposals should be submitted in one Word document and must include a provisional panel title and 3-4 paper abstracts, each no more than 250 words with their own title. Please also include the name of the panel organiser, chair and participants, along with a short bio and the contact details for each person.

All abstracts and panel proposals must be sent to amcs@um.edu.mt by 28 Feburary 2026. Requests or queries may be addressed to Dr. Wei Chen or Dr. Nan Hu.

Conference location: University of Malta, Valletta campus

Conference dates: 4 to 6 November 2026

Conference language: English

Deadline for abstracts: 28 Feburary 2026

Notification of acceptance: 30 April 2026

Conference Committee: Dr. Wei Chen, Dr. Nan Hu, and Dr. Dennis Mizzi

Participants experiencing financial hardship may be eligible for partial waivers of registration and cultural excursion fees. Those interested are encouraged to contact the organising committee for further details.

We warmly welcome scholars at all career stages to contribute to this timely dialogue on comparison in Sinology and look forward to vibrant exchanges in Malta.