Andrew Elfenbein

Andrew Elfenbein is a Professor of English at the University of Minnesota's College of Liberal Arts. His research focuses on 18th- and 19th-century British literature, with specializations in the history of authorship, queer theory, and cognitive approaches to reading. He has held editorial roles, including Associate Editor of the Journal of British Studies, and served as Scholar of the College (2000–2003). His work bridges literary criticism with empirical research on reading processes, collaborating with cognitive scientists to develop sensitive models of comprehension.

Elfenbein earned a B.A. (summa cum laude) and Ph.D. in English from Yale University. His interdisciplinary expertise spans linguistic history, empirical psychology, and the intersection of literature with cognitive science. He has received fellowships from the American Philosophical Society and Howard Foundation, highlighting his contributions to literary and cognitive studies.

His recent research emphasizes historical linguistics and the cognitive dimensions of reading, exploring how empirical methods can refine literary analysis. Key themes in his work include the role of rhyme in poetry comprehension, intertextuality between Romantic and Victorian authors, and the sociohistorical construction of authorship. His book The Gist of Reading (2018) synthesizes cognitive science and literary theory to redefine how we understand reading processes.

Awards include the Howard Foundation Fellowship (year unspecified) and American Philosophical Society Fellowship (year unspecified), reflecting his scholarly impact. His editorial contributions span journals like Genders and Nineteenth-Century Gender Studies, demonstrating his commitment to advancing interdisciplinary dialogue in literary studies.