Thomas Graff

Thomas Graff is an Adjunct Assistant Professor at the University of Notre Dame's London Faculty. His work bridges Christian systematic theology, literary analysis, and critical inquiries into the humanities' role in addressing mass incarceration. He holds graduate degrees in Philosophy, Theology, and Italian Literature (BA) and Italian Studies (MA) from Notre Dame, followed by an MPhil and PhD in Theology from Trinity College, Cambridge.

• Areas of Expertise: Systematic Theology, Religion and Literature
• Influential Figures: Augustine, Dante Alighieri, Hans Urs von Balthasar, Primo Levi
• Teaching: Courses on Dante and Mass Incarceration, Religion and Literature interdisciplinary studies

Graff's research explores theological interpretations of literary works, particularly Dante's Commedia, and the ethical implications of mass incarceration. His recent publications focus on Augustinian substructures in Dante's Christology, Virgil's symbolic role in Purgatorio, and theological analyses of predestination and friendship in Aquinas. He also advocates for the humanities' transformative potential in prison education.

At St Edmund's College, Cambridge, Graff serves as a Bye-Fellow, Director of Studies in Theology, Religion, and Philosophy of Religion, and Academic Officer at the Von Hügel Institute for Critical Catholic Inquiry. He has taught in prisons such as HMP Whitemoor (UK) and Westville Correctional Facility (US), emphasizing liberatory pedagogies.