Roger Macfarlane

Roger Macfarlane is an Associate Professor in the Department of Comparative Arts & Letters at Brigham Young University. His research focuses on classical archaeology, ancient texts, and interdisciplinary approaches to cultural heritage. He specializes in Herculaneum papyri, Roman history, and mythological adaptations in modern media.

Macfarlane frequently lectures on topics such as the application of modern technology to recover ancient texts, the archaeology of Pompeii and Herculaneum, and the reception of classical myths in film and music. Notable lectures include analyses of O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2020), Richard Strauss’s Elektra (2019), and the interdisciplinary study of Vesuvius’ environmental impact (2020).

His work bridges archaeology, technology, and humanities, emphasizing the intersection of ancient studies with modern scientific and artistic practices. He has presented globally at institutions like The Getty Villa, Madrid’s Museo Arqueologico Nacional, and BYU’s Education Week.

While no formal awards are listed, his contributions to public humanities and academic outreach are evident through numerous lectures and collaborations. His research often explores how ancient texts and artifacts inform contemporary understanding of cultural continuity and technological innovation.