Karen KettnichView profile
Senior Lecturer
Karen Kettnich is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of English at Clemson University, where she also serves as Managing Editor of The Library Quarterly . Her academic work bridges literary studies and library science, with a focus on folktales, Shakespearean drama, and medieval/renaissance theatre. She holds an M.A. in Shakespeare Studies from the University of Birmingham and an M.A. in English from the University of Maryland, alongside a B.A. from UCLA. Kettnich’s teaching emphasizes global folktales and their adaptations in literature, film, and television, often incorporating critical analysis frameworks. Her editorial leadership includes managing roles at The Library Quarterly , Advances in Librarianship , and South Atlantic Review , focusing on peer review processes, policy development, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Her research explores intersections between literature and performance, with notable work on Renaissance improvisation techniques and Shakespearean dramaturgy. She has also contributed to special issues addressing libraries’ roles in confronting polarization, misinformation, and democratic challenges. Kettnich’s pedagogical approach integrates critical thinking and writing through thematic literature courses, such as ‘World Literature’ exploring folktale adaptations. She has taught at Clemson since 2012 and previously held roles at Loyola University Maryland and the University of Maryland. Her service includes developing instructional guides for Clemson Abroad programs and contributing to academic initiatives like the 2 CT Faculty Institute.
