About
Jane Kingsley-Smith is a Professor at the University of Roehampton's School of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, affiliated with the Centre for Research in Society, Culture, and Social Change. She holds a BA from Oriel College, Oxford, and a PhD from the Shakespeare Institute, Stratford-upon-Avon. Her academic work focuses on Shakespeare's enduring cultural impact through both historical analysis and contemporary adaptations.
Kingsley-Smith's research examines:
- Shakespeare's works in historical/cultural contexts
- Reception history of Shakespeare's Sonnets
- Early modern literature and desire (Cupid iconography)
- Performance adaptations across media (theater, film, music)
- Textual editing practices and scholarly controversies
Her recent publications (2022-2025) demonstrate:
- Sustained focus on Shakespeare's Sonnets through editorial, racial, and emotional lenses
- Interdisciplinary approaches combining literary analysis with book history and performance theory
- Investigation of textual authenticity in early modern poetry
Awards & Honors:
- Senior Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy
Supervision & Outreach: Actively mentors PhD candidates in early modern topics. Leads public engagement initiatives including Folger Shakespeare Library podcasts, educational YouTube content for the Shakespeare 2020 project, and theater collaborations. Serves as peer reviewer for major Shakespeare journals and book series.
