Scott McDaniel: “The Clodded Periphery: Don West, Regional Topography, and the Gathering of Appalachian Existence”

Placing Appalachian Studies & poetry in conversation with continental phenomenology and lit theory, I argue that the spatiotemporality of Appalachia, while linked to specific cultural markers, must also be considered an expression of existential topography. West’s poetic image of the “clodhoppers” are therefore read as a material symbol that accounts for the tension b/t exploitation and self-determination while also a potential destabilizing of the boundary b/t the human & other-than human.

Scott McDaniel is a VAP in Appalachian Studies. His research focuses on the intersection of Appalachian Studies, the environmental humanities, religious studies, and continental philosophy.

This presentation is a part of the Humanities Seminar Series, sponsored by the Center for Humanities and held most Mondays from 12:15-1:15 pm in the Athenaeum classroom, 124 Newman Library. All members of the campus community are invited and very welcome to attend. Please feel free to bring your lunch if you like.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Abigail Middleton at 540-231-2640 or amiddleton@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.