Introductions and discussion of the aims of the series
This seminar series intends to offer a space for graduate students, faculty and early career scholars actively researching southern Africa to present works-in-progress and receive constructive feedback. We invite inquiries into any aspect of the social and political history of southern Africa. We welcome topics that are historical in substance, and that cross disciplinary boundaries into anthropology, politics and human geography. Presenters are invited to discuss thesis chapters, draft articles, with the option to pre-circulate, and to talk through research proposals and early findings from recent research. The format consists of 20-minute presentations, followed by some 40 minutes of feedback and conversation.
The series will also host a roundtable discussion in week 8, with which we aim to reflect on new questions, themes and sources in the study of the region. The seminars and roundtable consider the possibilities and productivity of deploying innovative methodologies. We welcome contributions that draw on and raise new questions about the use of approaches and sources ranging from memoirs, music, and visual narrative to archival research and oral histories. All are welcome to attend.
Date: 14 October 2025, 16:00
Venue: Queen Elizabeth House, 3 Mansfield Road OX1 3TB
Venue Details: Seminar Room 1
Speakers: Professor Jocelyn Alexander (University of Oxford), Ila Axelrod (University of Oxford)
Organising department: Oxford Department of International Development
Organiser: Ila Axelrod (University of Oxford)
Organiser contact email address: ila.axelrod@qeh.ox.ac.uk
Part of: Oxford Southern Africa Discussion Group
Booking required?: Not required
Audience: Members of the University only
Editor: Tamsin Kelk