Ralph J. HexterView profile
Professor
Roles & Affiliations Ralph J. Hexter is a distinguished scholar and administrator. He currently serves as Distinguished Professor of Classics and Comparative Literature at the University of California, Davis, and as Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor. Previously, he held leadership roles such as Interim Chancellor and Dean of Letters & Science at UC Berkeley, and President of Hampshire College. His academic career spans institutions including Yale University, the University of Colorado, and UC Davis. Education Ph.D. and M.Phil. in Comparative Literature, Yale University (1982) M.A. and B.A. in Classics and Modern Languages, Oxford University (1977, 1982) A.B. in English Literature, Harvard College (1974) Research Interests Dr. Hexter’s work focuses on classical and medieval literature, with specializations in Ovid, Virgil, and the reception of classical texts. His research explores themes such as medieval exegesis, the history of sexuality, and the intersection of opera with classical themes. He has pioneered studies on the cultural reception of Ovid’s Metamorphoses and the role of medieval Latin in literary traditions. Publications & Awards He is the author of Ovid and Medieval Schooling and co-editor of the Oxford Handbook of Medieval Latin Literature . His work has been recognized with prestigious awards, including election to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and the Stonewall Center’s Legacy Award. Key articles include studies on Virgil’s Aeneid , Ovid’s reception, and queer interpretations of classical texts. Teaching & Mentorship Dr. Hexter has taught courses on classical and medieval literature, opera, and comparative literature. He has mentored numerous doctoral students whose work spans ancient epics, medieval biblical narratives, and Apuleius’ Metamorphoses . His administrative service includes leadership roles in LGBTQ+ advocacy and institutional accreditation. Professional Contributions He has held leadership positions in the American Philological Association and the MLA, and serves on advisory boards such as the Dumbarton Oaks Medieval Library. His scholarly addresses include talks on classical reception, opera, and leadership in academia.
