13.11.2024 International Workshop 27-29 November

This workshop seeks to explore the interactions between state ideology and the socio-cultural sphere from an interdisciplinary perspective.

In the dynamic 20th century, characterised by rapidly increasing global mobility and multifaceted artistic and intellectual interchange, the political events and intellectual currents of Pahlavi Iran (1925-1979) are closely linked to the pursuit of modernity, to at times contradictory cultural processes, and to the resulting social change. Exploring these complex interrelations from a cultural angle broadens our historical perspective on late Pahlavi society and helps us to gain a deeper understanding of the political and socio-political processes of this period.

This workshop seeks to explore the interactions between state ideology and the socio-cultural sphere from an interdisciplinary perspective, focusing on four thematic areas: The influence of the press and literature on social discourses, the culturally strategic and identity-forming role of the performing arts, the relationship between state education policy and culture, and the dynamics of (state) religion, spirituality and psychology in modern media or through their dissemination in the media. 
The workshop in Marburg (27-29 November 2024) is the second part of a two-part format in academic cooperation with the Austrian Academy of Sciences (ÖAW). The first part took place in Vienna (3-5 July 2024) and was organised by Robert Steele, Postdoctoral Fellow at the Institute of Iranian Studies of ÖAW, and addressed key topics ranging from cultural and literary studies, art and architecture, media studies and performative arts to archaeology. 
Contributions of part 2 address how media, literature, art and religion, as cultural-political instruments of identity formation, have shaped the dynamics of societal change. The discussions will reflect on historical continuities and competing narratives of modernisation and modernity, as well as the interactions between culture, politics and society.

Please see the programme for further details.

The workshop is open to interested students and members of the university.