This talk features Dr. Sergio La Porta, interim dean of the Kremen School of Education and Human Development, and Dr. Alison Vacca, Gevork M. Avedissian, associate professor of Armenian History and Civilization at Columbia University. They will introduce their new edition, translation, and commentary of the 8th century Armenian history attributed to Łewond, which was selected as the Winner (Best Edition & Translation) of the Mediterranean Seminar Prize for the Best Source Edition, Book Translation, or Essay Collection, 2025.

Łewond’s account, a rare narrative produced from within the early Islamic Caliphate, situates Armenia at the intersection of Roman, Khazar and caliphal spheres of influence and offers a valuable perspective on provincial administration, military conflict and noble politics. Rather than treating Łewond as an unreliable witness, the authors examine his work as a consciously constructed narrative shaped by the political and cultural contexts of his time.

Date: Friday, Dec. 5
Time: 7 - 9 p.m.
Location: University Business Center

For more information or questions, contact Professor Barlow Der Mugrdechian at barlowd@csufresno.edu or 559.278.2669