Reflections: Talking Mediterranean

Abstract

Reflecting back on the colloquium, Catlos suggests that Mediterranean studies should not be conceived of as a new, rigidly conceived paradigm to replace old, rigidly conceived paradigms, but rather a loose approach to certain problems that old approaches do not seem to be able to account for. Kinoshita notes the inevitable problems that come with terminology as it becomes associated with certain concrete concepts, and reflects on the composite nature of the Mediterranean. Hilsdale sees in the “thalassal optic” and the Mediterranean a means of distinguishing overlap** circles of influence that together lend meaning to objects. Farago sees in the Mediterranean frame, the potential to build out further towards a global understanding of art and culture. Finally, Horden reflects on the inevitability of politics invading our historical and cultural discourses, however determinedly we might wish to avoid it.