Maurice Samuels is a prominent scholar and expert in the field of French literature and culture, currently serving as the Betty Jane Anlyan Professor of French at Yale University. With a specialization in 19th- and 20th-century French literature, Samuels has made significant contributions to the understanding of the complex relationships between literature, history, and culture. His research interests include the intersection of literature and politics, the representation of Jews and Jewishness in French literature, and the cultural and intellectual history of modern France.
Academic Background and Expertise
Samuels’ academic background is marked by excellence and a deep commitment to the study of French literature and culture. He received his Bachelor’s degree from Harvard University and went on to earn his Ph.D. in French from Yale University. His doctoral dissertation, which explored the representation of Jews in 19th-century French literature, laid the groundwork for his future research endeavors. Throughout his career, Samuels has demonstrated a remarkable ability to balance theoretical sophistication with historical and cultural nuance, making him a leading expert in his field.
Research Interests and Publications
Samuels’ research interests are diverse and far-reaching, encompassing topics such as the Dreyfus Affair, the rise of anti-Semitism in France, and the role of literature in shaping cultural and political discourse. His publications include The Spectacular Past: Popular History and the Novel in Nineteenth-Century France, which offers a comprehensive analysis of the intersection of history, literature, and popular culture in 19th-century France. Additionally, his book Inventing the Israelite: Jewish Fiction in Nineteenth-Century France provides a detailed examination of the representation of Jews and Jewishness in French literature during the 19th century, shedding light on the complex and often fraught nature of Jewish identity in modern France.
| Publication | Year |
|---|---|
| The Spectacular Past: Popular History and the Novel in Nineteenth-Century France | 2004 |
| Inventing the Israelite: Jewish Fiction in Nineteenth-Century France | 2010 |
Teaching and Mentorship
As a professor at Yale University, Samuels is dedicated to teaching and mentoring students in the field of French literature and culture. His courses cover a range of topics, from the fin-de-siècle period to contemporary French literature and culture. Samuels is known for his engaging and thought-provoking teaching style, which encourages students to think critically about the complex relationships between literature, history, and culture. Through his mentorship, he has guided numerous students in their research endeavors, helping them to develop their own expertise and make meaningful contributions to the field.
Professional Affiliations and Awards
Samuels is an active member of several professional organizations, including the Modern Language Association (MLA) and the Society for French Historical Studies. He has received numerous awards and honors for his research and teaching, including the Guggenheim Fellowship and the Yale University Prize for Teaching Excellence. These accolades are a testament to his dedication to the field and his commitment to excellence in research and teaching.
- Modern Language Association (MLA)
- Society for French Historical Studies
What is the focus of Maurice Samuels’ research?
+Maurice Samuels’ research focuses on 19th- and 20th-century French literature and culture, with a particular emphasis on the intersection of literature, history, and culture. His work explores topics such as the representation of Jews and Jewishness in French literature, the Dreyfus Affair, and the role of literature in shaping cultural and political discourse.
What are some of Maurice Samuels’ notable publications?
+Some of Maurice Samuels’ notable publications include The Spectacular Past: Popular History and the Novel in Nineteenth-Century France and Inventing the Israelite: Jewish Fiction in Nineteenth-Century France. These works demonstrate his expertise in the field and provide valuable insights into the complex relationships between literature, history, and culture.
