The project started in 1992 as a more or less monthly e-mail bibliography, and moved to the web in 1997. We are always glad to welcome new volunteers. C18-L is committed to the principles of free speech and the free exchange of ideas. While we disapprove of rancorous and personal arguments, we do not censor discussions. Although most of the messages on C18-L are in English, we welcome messages in any other language.
Queries concerning nearly anything related to our field are welcome.
Those who have issued a query and have received helpful information should acknowledge those who've helped at some point. It's nice and it makes everybody feel good. Those who wish to see topics other than English literature discussed should consider initiating such a discussion. Although the majority of C18-L subscribers are residents of the United States, this is an international forum, and participants in the discussion should be aware of the problems implicit in assuming a shared national experience. Be aware that irony may be invisible online, that sarcasm may appear much more acerbic and hurtful than intended online, that people's feelings may be more sensitive than textual evidence might suggest, that nobody ever benefited from wholesale attacks on theoretical, ideological, and historical positions or lack thereof.