Wolfram Schmidgen

Professor Wolfram Schmidgen is a pioneering educational figure in the field of English literature, currently serving at Washington University in St. Louis. With an impressive academic background, he earned his doctorate from the University of Chicago and holds master's degrees from both the Free University of Berlin and Binghamton University. His scholarly pursuits are deeply rooted in the exploration of 17th- and 18th-century literature, where he examines the intricate relationships between culture, intellectual history, and religion. Dr. Schmidgen's research is particularly focused on the concept of voluntarism and its impact on religious orthodoxy during these centuries. He is known for his insightful analysis of themes such as impurity, hybridity, and the ethics of particularity, which are central to understanding the complexities of the period's literature and thought. His contributions to the field are encapsulated in his acclaimed publications, including "Infinite Variety," "Exquisite Mixture," and "Eighteenth-Century Fiction and the Law of Property." In addition to his research, Dr. Schmidgen is a dedicated educator, having supervised numerous doctoral dissertations. His teaching repertoire includes courses that challenge students to think critically about literature and its broader implications. Courses like "Species," "Inventing the Novel," and "Literature and Justice" reflect his commitment to exploring the intersections of literature with societal and ethical issues. Dr. Schmidgen's work not only enriches the academic community but also provides valuable insights into the cultural and intellectual currents of the 17th and 18th centuries. His approach to literature as a lens for understanding historical and ethical dilemmas continues to inspire students and scholars alike. Through his innovative teaching methods and groundbreaking research, he remains a vital contributor to the field of English literature and intellectual history.