Michael R. Lynn

Michael R. Lynn is a Professor of History and Director of Concurrent Enrollment Programs at Purdue University Northwest. His research focuses on the social and cultural history of Europe between 1400 and 1800, with a particular emphasis on the interplay between science, magic, and folklore in early modern France. He has explored topics such as chiromancy, spontaneous human combustion, tarot cards, vampirism, and ventriloquism. Lynn has authored numerous books and articles, including Popular Science and Public Opinion in Eighteenth-Century France (2006) and The Sublime Invention: Ballooning in Europe, 1783–1820 (2010).

Education:

• Ph.D. in History, University of Wisconsin-Madison
• M.A. in History, University of Wisconsin-Madison
• B.A. and B.S. in History and Mathematics, Pacific Lutheran University

Lynn’s research interests span Early Modern Europe, Early Modern France, the History of Science, Enlightenment, and Social and Cultural History. His work often bridges the gap between popular belief systems and scientific inquiry, examining how cultural narratives shaped—and were shaped by—enlightenment-era advancements. Recent publications explore werewolves, vampires, and the history of tarot cards in early modern France, alongside broader themes like ballooning’s cultural impact and the commercialization of science.

Advising & Grants: No students or grants explicitly listed in the provided text.

Labs/Teams: Not mentioned in the available information.