Configurations

Scope & Guideline

Fostering Interdisciplinary Dialogue in Literature and Beyond

Introduction

Welcome to the Configurations information hub, where our guidelines provide a wealth of knowledge about the journal’s focus and academic contributions. This page includes an extensive look at the aims and scope of Configurations, highlighting trending and emerging areas of study. We also examine declining topics to offer insight into academic interest shifts. Our curated list of highly cited topics and recent publications is part of our effort to guide scholars, using these guidelines to stay ahead in their research endeavors.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN1063-1801
PublisherJOHNS HOPKINS UNIV PRESS
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited States
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1993 to 1994, from 1996 to 2001, from 2004 to 2024
AbbreviationCONFIGURATIONS / Configurations
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressJOURNALS PUBLISHING DIVISION, 2715 NORTH CHARLES ST, BALTIMORE, MD 21218-4363

Aims and Scopes

Configurations is a journal that explores the intersections of literature, science, technology, and culture. It aims to investigate how these domains interact and influence one another, offering a platform for interdisciplinary scholarship that challenges traditional boundaries.
  1. Interdisciplinary Studies:
    The journal focuses on the convergence of literature, science, and technology, encouraging research that crosses disciplinary lines and integrates various methodologies.
  2. Cultural Critique:
    A significant aim is to critique cultural narratives, particularly those related to environmental issues, technological advancements, and social justice, fostering discussions around contemporary societal challenges.
  3. Ecocriticism and the Anthropocene:
    Configurations consistently addresses themes of ecocriticism and the Anthropocene, examining how literature reflects and shapes our understanding of ecological crises.
  4. Digital Humanities and Technology:
    The journal also emphasizes the role of digital humanities in contemporary scholarship, exploring how technology transforms the ways we create and interpret literature.
  5. Narrative and Representation:
    A core scope includes the analysis of narrative forms and their implications for representing diverse experiences, particularly in relation to marginalized communities.
Recent publications in Configurations reveal emerging themes that reflect the evolving landscape of literature and cultural studies. These trends indicate a growing interest in the intersections of various disciplines and contemporary societal issues.
  1. Ecological and Environmental Narratives:
    There is a notable increase in research exploring ecological narratives, particularly in the context of the Anthropocene, as scholars seek to understand the role of literature in addressing environmental crises.
  2. Digital Culture and New Media:
    The journal is increasingly focusing on the impact of digital culture and new media on literary forms, examining how technology influences narrative structure and audience engagement.
  3. Interdisciplinary Methodologies:
    A trend towards interdisciplinary methodologies is evident, with more scholars incorporating insights from science, technology studies, and cultural theory into literary analysis.
  4. Queer Theory and Representation:
    Emerging discussions around queer theory and representation are becoming more prominent, reflecting a critical engagement with issues of identity, materiality, and societal norms.
  5. Posthumanism and Nonhuman Perspectives:
    Recent themes highlight posthumanist approaches, particularly in examining the relationships between humans and nonhumans, which are increasingly relevant in contemporary literary studies.

Declining or Waning

Over recent years, certain themes within Configurations have shown a decline in prominence, reflecting shifting scholarly interests and external influences within the fields of literature and cultural studies.
  1. Traditional Literary Analysis:
    There appears to be a waning focus on traditional literary analysis that does not integrate contemporary issues or interdisciplinary approaches, as the journal increasingly prioritizes innovative frameworks.
  2. Historical Literary Studies:
    Themes centered on historical literary studies, especially those lacking connections to present-day issues, seem to be receiving less attention, indicating a shift towards more relevant, contemporary analyses.
  3. Singular Author Studies:
    Research concentrating solely on individual authors without contextualizing their work within broader cultural or technological frameworks is becoming less common, as the journal favors studies that explore collective movements and influences.

Similar Journals

Colmena-Revista de la Universidad Autonoma del Estado de Mexico

Championing accessible research for all seekers of knowledge.
Publisher: UNIV AUTONOMA ESTADO MEXICO, FAC HUMANIDADESISSN: 1405-6313Frequency: 4 issues/year

Colmena-Revista de la Universidad Autonoma del Estado de Mexico is a distinguished open-access journal dedicated to advancing research in the humanities and social sciences. Published by the Universidad Autonoma del Estado de Mexico's Faculty of Humanities, this journal has proudly embraced an open-access model since 2013, making scholarly work widely accessible to researchers, professionals, and students across the globe. With its ISSN 1405-6313 and E-ISSN 2448-6302, Colmena serves as a vital platform for innovative ideas and interdisciplinary discourse, fostering a rich exchange of knowledge that contributes to the intellectual landscape of Mexico and beyond. The journal aims to publish high-quality research articles, reviews, and essays that reflect current trends and inquiries within its fields of study, ensuring that it remains an essential resource for anyone seeking to engage deeply with contemporary issues in the humanities.

Animation-An Interdisciplinary Journal

Bridging Disciplines through the Lens of Animation
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS INCISSN: 1746-8477Frequency: 3 issues/year

Animation: An Interdisciplinary Journal is a distinguished publication that explores the dynamic intersections of animation within the spheres of visual arts and performing arts. Published by SAGE Publications Inc in the United Kingdom, this journal has established itself as a significant platform for scholarly discourse, boasting a 2023 Scopus ranking that places it in the 79th percentile among a competitive cohort of arts and humanities journals. With a Q2 ranking in both Visual Arts and Performing Arts, the journal publishes innovative research that spans theoretical frameworks, technical advances, and cultural impacts of animation, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and dialogue. Researchers, professionals, and students alike will find Animation an invaluable resource for understanding the evolving role of animation in contemporary society. Its comprehensive approach ensures that every edition contributes to the ongoing narrative of animation as a critical art form, making it essential reading for anyone invested in the future of animated media.

Cogent Arts & Humanities

Fostering Innovation in Arts and Humanities Research
Publisher: TAYLOR & FRANCIS ASISSN: 2331-1983Frequency: 1 issue/year

Cogent Arts & Humanities, published by Taylor & Francis AS, is a prominent Open Access journal that has been serving the arts and humanities community since its inception in 2014. With an impressive Scopus rank of 16 out of 173 in the field and a 2023 category quartile of Q2, it stands out as a significant platform for disseminating high-quality research. The journal covers a diverse range of topics within the arts and humanities, fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and innovation. Its commitment to accessibility makes cutting-edge research available to a global audience, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and practice in this vital field. With an impact factor that continues to grow, Cogent Arts & Humanities is an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students dedicated to exploring the complexities of human culture and creative expression.

Enthymema-International Journal of Literary Criticism Literary Theory and Philosophy of Literature

Unveiling New Horizons in Literary Philosophy
Publisher: Milano University PressISSN: 2037-2426Frequency: 2 issues/year

Enthymema - International Journal of Literary Criticism, Literary Theory and Philosophy of Literature, published by Milano University Press, is a leading open-access platform dedicated to the dynamic fields of literary criticism and theory as well as the philosophy surrounding literature. With an ISSN of 2037-2426, this esteemed journal has been fostering scholarly dialogue and innovative discourse since its inception in 2009. As a member of the prestigious Q2 quartile in the Literature and Literary Theory category as of 2023, Enthymema ranks favorably within the Scopus framework, currently positioned at #599 out of 1106 journals, reflecting a robust engagement with current academic trends. The journal emphasizes inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring that cutting-edge research and critical insights are available to a wider audience without financial barriers. With its significant focus on contemporary debates and theoretical advancements, Enthymema serves as an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students eager to navigate the intricate landscapes of literary studies.

SALMAGUNDI-A QUARTERLY OF THE HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES

Connecting Thoughtful Scholars Across the Arts and Social Sciences
Publisher: SALMAGUNDIISSN: 0036-3529Frequency: 4 issues/year

SALMAGUNDI: A Quarterly of the Humanities and Social Sciences is a distinguished journal dedicated to fostering critical discussions within the realms of humanities and social sciences. Published by SALMAGUNDI and housed at Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs, NY, this journal has been serving the academic community since its inception in 1987. Although it operates under a subscription model, its commitment to exploring diverse perspectives in cultural studies, literature, and the arts remains unwavering. With its current rankings placing it in the lower quartiles of its categories in Cultural Studies, Literature, and Visual Arts, SALMAGUNDI presents a platform for emerging ideas and underrepresented voices that challenge conventional narratives. As the journal charts its course towards the year 2024, it continues to invite scholars, professionals, and students to engage with its rich content, fostering a collaborative environment of intellectual growth and inquiry.

Jordan Journal of Modern Languages & Literature

Bridging Theory and Practice in Modern Languages
Publisher: YARMOUK UNIV, DEANSHIP RESEARCH & GRADUATE STUDIESISSN: 1994-6953Frequency: 4 issues/year

Jordan Journal of Modern Languages & Literature is a prestigious academic journal published by Yarmouk University, Deanship of Research & Graduate Studies. This journal serves as a vital platform for scholars and researchers in the fields of linguistics and literature, offering a well-rounded examination of modern languages and literary theory. With an impressive Q2 ranking in Linguistics and Language and a Q1 distinction in Literature and Literary Theory as of 2023, it consistently features high-quality research that contributes to the advancement of knowledge in these domains. The Scopus rankings further reflect its academic rigor, placing it in the 79th percentile for Literature and Literary Theory and maintaining significant influence in related fields, making it an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike. Although it does not operate under an open-access model, the journal's commitment to publishing groundbreaking studies can significantly aid in the understanding and progression of modern linguistic and literary practices. The Jordan Journal of Modern Languages & Literature continues to be an influential voice in fostering scholarly dialogue and advancing research in the humanities.

LIBERTE

Nurturing Critical Voices in the Academic Landscape
Publisher: LIBERTEISSN: 0024-2020Frequency: 4 issues/year

LIBERTE is a distinguished academic journal that serves as a platform for critical thinking and scholarly discourse across various fields including Literature and Literary Theory, Philosophy, Sociology and Political Science, and Visual Arts and Performing Arts. Established in Canada and published by LIBERTE, this journal aims to foster intellectual exchange and explore the nuances of cultural and social narratives. Although it currently falls in the Q4 quartile across its categories, it is dedicated to advancing the conversation in the arts and humanities, providing a rich resource for researchers, educators, and students alike. With an ISSN of 0024-2020 and an active publication cycle running from 2002 to 2024, LIBERTE welcomes contributions that challenge prevailing ideologies and reflect innovative perspectives. While the journal is not open access, its value in promoting academic inquiry within its communities cannot be overstated.

Agathos-An International Review of the Humanities and Social Sciences

Empowering Scholars Through Unrestricted Access to Ideas
Publisher: ALEXANDRU IOAN CUZA UNIV IASI FAC PHILOSOPHY & SOCIAL-POLITICAL SCIENCESISSN: 2069-1025Frequency: 2 issues/year

Agathos: An International Review of the Humanities and Social Sciences is a distinguished academic journal published by the Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, Faculty of Philosophy & Social-Political Sciences. With a focus on interdisciplinary research, this journal aims to foster scholarly dialogue and advance knowledge across the fields of humanities and social sciences. As an Open Access journal since 2010, it promotes unrestricted access to research findings, enabling a wider audience of researchers, professionals, and students to engage with impactful scholarship. The journal features innovative articles that explore contemporary issues while adhering to rigorous academic standards. By prioritizing relevance and quality, Agathos has established itself as a vital platform for disseminating research and shaping discussions in its field. The journal’s ISSN is 2069-1025 and its E-ISSN is 2248-3446, highlighting its commitment to maintaining an accessible and expansive repository of knowledge.

SUB-STANCE

Fostering Innovative Ideas in the World of Literature
Publisher: JOHNS HOPKINS UNIV PRESSISSN: 0049-2426Frequency: 3 issues/year

SUB-STANCE is a distinguished academic journal published by Johns Hopkins University Press, focusing on the fields of Literature and Literary Theory. With an ISSN of 0049-2426 and an E-ISSN of 1527-2095, this journal serves as a vital platform for innovative scholarship and critical engagement in literary studies. Established in 2002 and currently converging its distinctive academic voice through to 2024, SUB-STANCE is ranked in the Q3 category for Literature and Literary Theory according to the 2023 metrics, reflecting its commitment to quality and impactful research. Although not open access, the journal continues to attract a diverse array of articles that contribute to ongoing discussions in contemporary literature, theories, and cultural discourse. Researchers, professionals, and students alike will find valuable insights and analyses within its pages, making it an essential resource for anyone seeking to advance their understanding of the literary world.

KENNEDY INSTITUTE OF ETHICS JOURNAL

Advancing Discourse on Ethics and Health Sciences
Publisher: JOHNS HOPKINS UNIV PRESSISSN: 1054-6863Frequency: 4 issues/year

The KENNEDY INSTITUTE OF ETHICS JOURNAL, published by the prestigious Johns Hopkins University Press, stands as a leading periodical in the realm of ethics, particularly emphasizing the intersection of health policy, social sciences, history, and philosophy of science. With an ISSN of 1054-6863 and an E-ISSN of 1086-3249, this journal has been a cornerstone of ethical discourse since its inception in 1991. Renowned for its rigorous peer-review process, the journal boasts impressive rankings, including Q1 in History and Philosophy of Science and Q2 in Health (Social Science) for 2023. Researchers, professionals, and students alike will find this journal invaluable for navigating complex ethical issues, providing a platform for innovative research and discourse. Although currently not offering Open Access, its contributions to the fields of ethics and legal aspects of health are profound, making it an essential resource for those engaged in these critical discussions.