Welcome to ESSE 2012

It is my pleasure to welcome you to the 11^th ESSE Conference website. All members of IDEA, our national association for studies in English will be delighted to welcome you here in Turkey.

Boğaziçi University has long been recognized as one of Turkey's best universities. For about 150 years we have sent forth alumni who carry BU's spirit with them as they pursue their lives and careers in many different countries. This conference promises to advance BU's international presence and bring together members of national associations across Europe. Academic scholars as well as students from all over Europe will present and discuss topics in English Studies through more than a hundred seminars, roundtables and poster sessions. We also have a great line-up of keynote speakers including Prof. Linda Hutcheon and Prof. Jonathan Culpeper. As in our previous conferences, you can expect the opportunities to see old friends, meet new ones, and network with a diversity of colleagues from a variety of institutions.

Istanbul, the host city of the 11^th ESSE Conference, was an ancient capital and has a history of over 2500 years. A bridge between the East and the West for centuries, Istanbul is located on the Bosporus Strait, where you'll find a harmonious blend of culture, cuisine, arts and architecture along with excellent shopping opportunities. It is amazing that Istanbul still manifests both ancient and modern aspects. Highlights of Istanbul include Topkapı Palace, Hagia Sophia, The Blue Mosque whose architecture represents the spiritual backbone of Oriental culture; natural landscapes with seasonal changes, traditional arts, crafts, Turkish cuisine and Istanbul night life. It is my sincere hope that during your time in Istanbul you will enjoy these and other elements that embody the essence of Turkish culture.

We hope that the website will provide you with all the answers you need. Please do not hesitate to contact us at cfp@esse2012.org for further assistance.

We are looking forward to seeing you all in Istanbul in September 2012, at what promises to be a most stimulating and enjoyable event!

Işıl Baş
Chair of IDEA (Turkish National Association for Studies in English)
Chair of Organizing Committee