Elisabeth Bronfen

Elisabeth Bronfen is Professor of English and American Studies at the University of Zurich, holding a chair professorship since 2001. Previously, she served as Professor (1993-2001), Associate Professor (1992-1996), and Assistant Professor (1985-1991) at the University of Munich.

Her academic foundation includes a PhD and habilitation from the University of Munich, with doctoral research focused on literary space in Dorothy M. Richardson's novel Pilgrimage. The educational trajectory established her expertise in 19th-20th century literary analysis.

Bronfen's research spans Cultural studies, Psychoanalytic literary theory, Visual culture, and Feminist studies, intersecting with film, gender theory, and art history. Her work consistently examines death, femininity, hysteria, and celebrity culture through interdisciplinary lenses. Current projects include Hollywood and War (Rutgers University Press), an analysis of Stanley Cavell's philosophy, and a study of Queen Elizabeth I as the original cultural diva.

Her distinguished honors include:

• Harvard University's Phi Beta Kappa (1980) and Mellon Fellowship (1987-1988)
• German Research Foundation's Nachwuchsförderpreis (1993)
• Princeton University's Council of the Humanities Fellowship (1994)
• Columbia University's Max Kade Distinguished Visiting Fellowship (1997, 2000)
• New York University's Global Distinguished Professorship (2007-2013)

Bronfen maintains active scholarly engagement through ongoing book projects and international academic collaborations, reflecting sustained contributions to literary and cultural theory.