Athena Vrettos

Dr. Athena Vrettos is well-known for her work in the interdisciplinary fields of Victorian literature, psychology, and the history of medicine and sexuality. As an Associate Professor Emerita in the Department of English at Case Western Reserve University, she dedicated 26 years to teaching and mentoring students, while also serving as the director of graduate studies for eight years. Her academic journey began with degrees from Vassar College and the University of Pennsylvania, which laid the foundation for her extensive research and scholarly contributions. Dr. Vrettos's research interests are deeply rooted in the exploration of the body and medicine, particularly within the context of Victorian literature. Her acclaimed book, "Somatic Fictions," delves into the concept of illness as a cultural construct, offering a nuanced perspective on how societal narratives shape our understanding of health and disease. This work has been instrumental in bridging the gap between literary studies and medical humanities, highlighting the intricate connections between narrative and corporeal experiences. In addition to her book, Dr. Vrettos has authored numerous articles that examine the intersection of literature with psychology and parapsychology. Her scholarly inquiries have covered a wide array of intriguing topics, including memory displacement, déjà vu, psychometry, ancestral memory, habit formation, wandering attention, and emotional traces. These explorations have contributed significantly to the understanding of how psychological phenomena are represented and interpreted in literary texts. Throughout her tenure at Case Western Reserve University, Dr. Vrettos was recognized for her exceptional teaching abilities, receiving several awards that underscore her commitment to education. She taught a diverse range of courses, including those on 19th-century British literature and interdisciplinary medical humanities. Her pedagogical approach was characterized by an emphasis on critical thinking and the integration of interdisciplinary perspectives, which enriched the learning experiences of her students. Dr. Vrettos's contributions to academia extend beyond her research and teaching. Her work has inspired a generation of scholars to explore the intersections of literature, psychology, and medicine, fostering a deeper understanding of the cultural dimensions of health and the human body. Her legacy continues to influence contemporary discussions in these fields, making her a respected figure in both literary and medical humanities circles. As an emerita professor, Dr. Vrettos remains engaged with the academic community, offering her insights and expertise to ongoing scholarly dialogues. Her career stands as a testament to the power of interdisciplinary research and the enduring impact of literature on our understanding of the human condition.