Wendy Matlock

Wendy Matlock is a Professor in the Department of English at Kansas State University (KSU), joining in 2008 after tenure-track experience at California State University, Sacramento. She holds a Ph.D. (2003) from Ohio State University, an M.A. from the University of Wyoming, and a B.A. from Northwestern University. Her teaching spans introductory courses to specialized medieval studies, emphasizing intellectual creativity and contemporary relevance of medieval texts. Notable courses include “Literature of the Global Middle Ages” and “Dragons, Damsels, Death.”

Dr. Matlock’s research focuses on Middle English debate poetry (c. 1275–1500), particularly the intersection of literary forms and household dynamics. Her monograph-in-progress, Debating Households in Middle English Poetry, re-examines medieval narrative conventions. New projects explore modern poets’ use of medieval forms to address refugee experiences and the fluidity of literary canons through anonymous medieval texts.

Recipient of KSU’s Presidential Teaching Award (Undergraduate) and SAGE’s Distinguished Teaching Award (Graduate), she emphasizes innovative pedagogy. Active on Instagram and Bluesky, she tracks her students’ academic and professional journeys. Her work bridges medieval scholarship with contemporary cultural analysis, fostering interdisciplinary dialogue.