We hosted 2 Digital Fridays in 2024 where HASTAC Scholars and esteemed speakers came together from diverse disciplines, offering insightful presentations that spanned the spectrum of technology, the arts, humanities, and sciences. The vibrancy and depth of these discussions not only enriched our community but also underscored the groundbreaking work being undertaken by scholars across the globe. Here is a glimpse at the 2024 Digital Fridays;
Session 1: March 31, 2024
Digital Horizons: Navigating Stories, Realities, and Visions
The presentations on March 22nd were a dynamic exploration of innovative storytelling across multiple digital platforms like video games, virtual reality, and graphic novels. Each presentation will offer a unique perspective on how digital media shapes our understanding of narrative, identity, and societal issues.
“The [C]rime of the Ancient Mariner: Locating the Hermeneutics of Trauma and its Sublimation in the Mariner’s Journey and Dark Souls” by Hiranya Mukherjee
Hiranya Mukherjee, a recent graduate from Presidency University, Kolkata, explores the depths of trauma through the narrative interplay between the classic tale of the Ancient Mariner and the modern video game Dark Souls. His research integrates elements of gothic studies, sci-fi, and fantasy, presenting a compelling analysis of storytelling in video games.
“Empowering Change: Virtual Reality for Gender-Based Violence” by Hamida Khatri
Hamida Khatri uses her background in Arts, Technology, & Emerging Communication to develop virtual reality solutions aimed at combating gender-based violence. Her innovative approach combines technological tools with social justice advocacy, showcasing the potential of virtual environments to effect real-world change.
Read her presentation recap here.
“Seeing/ Reading the Graphic Novel through a DH Lens” by Elizabeth Varkey
Assistant Professor Elizabeth Varkey examines graphic novels through the lens of Digital Humanities. Her research highlights the representation of refugees, blending literary criticism with digital tools to explore new narratives in graphic literature.
“(Re)framing Myth: Ancient Texts and Digital Tools” by Stella J. Fritzell
Stella J. Fritzell’s research brings a fresh perspective to ancient myths using digital scholarship tools. Her work examines how digital mediums can transform our understanding of classical texts, providing new insights into ancient narratives.
Session 2: April 12, 2024
A Tapestry of Digital Narratives
“Facebook as Autofiction: Navigating Digital Narratives and Self-Construction in the Social Media Sphere” by Rimi Nandy
Rimi Nandy explores how individuals create and manipulate narratives of the self on social media platforms. Her study examines the intersection of digital narratives and self-construction, providing insights into identity formation in the digital age.
“Empowering Voices: The Cultural Impact of Iranian Women’s Digital Activism” by Niloufar Esmaeili
Niloufar Esmaeili’s research focuses on the role of digital media in supporting feminist movements and addressing gender violence in Iran. Her work highlights the transformative power of digital platforms in amplifying marginalized voices.
“Digital Cartography and Feminist Geocriticism: A Case Study of the Marichjhapi Massacre” by Jyothi Justin
Jyothi Justin applies digital mapping tools to explore the spatial dimensions of historical narratives. Her research uses GIS to highlight the experiences of marginalized communities, particularly Dalit women, in literary studies.
These sessions promise to provide a platform for intellectual exchange and to demonstrate the breadth and diversity of research within the HASTAC Scholars community. Join us as we navigate the complex narratives and realities shaped by digital technology, exploring how these stories reflect and influence our social and cultural landscapes.