William R Viestenz

William R Viestenz is an Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Spanish & Portuguese Studies at the University of Minnesota. His academic work centers on contemporary Spanish and Catalan literature, with a focus on cultural, philosophical, and medical discourses in narrative.

Research Interests: His scholarship explores post-secular themes, immunology as metaphor, Francoist Spain, bullfighting, and life writing. He investigates how literature constructs identity, community, and the sacred through narrative discourse. His work intersects with medical humanities, cultural studies, and literary theory.

The most recent publications (2020–2023) reflect a strong engagement with Catalan narrative, particularly examining immunological metaphors, sacred contagion, and self-writing. These works highlight interdisciplinary approaches, blending literary analysis with philosophy, biology, and cultural theory.

Scientific Awards:

• Talle Faculty Research Award (2019–2020)

Advising and Grants: While no specific students or advising roles are listed, as Department Chair, he plays a leadership role in academic governance. He has received competitive internal research funding, indicating active scholarly support.

Labs and Research Teams: No formal lab or team is mentioned, but his collaborative award (Talle Faculty Research Award) suggests interdisciplinary engagement with colleagues across departments.