Abi Rowson

Dr. Abi Rowson is a Grant Support Postdoctoral Fellow in the School of Languages, Cultures and Societies at the University of Leeds, where she also completed her undergraduate and postgraduate studies. Her work bridges philosophy, literature, and theology, with a focus on Dante’s Commedia. She provides strategic research grant support and contributes to REF impact case studies, while also teaching on the BA English and Comparative Literature programme.

Education:

• PhD in Italian Studies
• MA (with Distinction) in Philosophy
• BA (Hons) in Philosophy

Her research centers on the intersections of philosophy and literature, particularly how Dante represents theology through personal encounters in the Commedia. She argues for Beatrice’s role as a theologian based on poetic personhood rather than institutional authority. Her current work extends into poetic knowledge as a distinct epistemic mode, engaging thinkers like Levinas, Cavell, and Diamond.

Although no articles are listed in the provided text, her research trajectory indicates a strong focus on Dante, moral reasoning in fiction, and interdisciplinary approaches to poetic understanding.

Scientific Awards:

• AHRC-funded student on the Leeds-Warwick project 'Dante and Late Medieval Florence: Theology in Poetry, Practice and Society'
• Modern Humanities Research Association Scholarship

She advises on grant applications and contributes to research development within her school. While formal students are not listed, she mentors through teaching and research collaboration. She is affiliated with the Leeds Centre for Dante Studies and the Italian Literary Studies research group, contributing to a vibrant interdisciplinary research environment focused on Italian literature and philosophical hermeneutics.