6th MIT Global Humanities Forum on “Humans and Their Literatures” on Jan 9 (online)

Join us for the 2026

Dear colleagues, students, and friends,

GHI 6th Forum! This session introduces the GHI Pillar Humans and Their Literatures, in particular two projects The Atlas of Human Literatures and World Poetries of the Neighborhood: A Living Digital Anthology. 

6th GHI Forum

• Title: Humans and Their Literatures
• Date: Jan 9, 2026, 10:00–11:30 AM EST
• Where: Online (Zoom Registration Link: https://mit.zoom.us/meeting/register/JuVq42vrQZinmPQ9GctY0g)
• Speakers: Ugo Mondini, Michael Angerer, Marina Bazzani, Di Wang, Wiebke Denecke 

【Abstract】

Today, thanks to expanding translation efforts and digital resources, literature is more widely available than ever. However, the study of literature as a global phenomenon is still restricted to a few well-established traditions in major world languages. This forum addresses the ways in which the GHI’s newly rebuilt pillar Humans and Their Literatures plans to respond to this challenge and opportunity. We will be introducing our two new projects: The Atlas of Human Literatures and World Poetries of the Neighborhood.

The Atlas of Human Literatures aims to build an interactive, open-source map of global literatures. As a digital atlas, it will visualize human literatures as they emerge, transform, and connect across time and space. Initial work will focus on designing a strategy and platform that can bring together global expertise and amplify underrepresented traditions to create a truly collaborative model of global literary study. At the same time, World Poetries of the Neighborhood aims to create an interactive ‘living digital anthology’ of poetry and lyrics from around the world. It will allow users to contribute translations, personal reflections, and explanatory vignettes, in order to foster cross-cultural appreciation and ‘netizen diplomacy’ through poetry.

Looking forward to seeing you at our events!

The GHI Team