معرفی
Ann W. Astell is the John Cardinal O'Hara Professor of Theology at the University of Notre Dame, part of the College of Arts and Letters. She specializes in the History of Christianity, with a focus on medieval theological and literary traditions. Her research explores hagiography, biblical exegesis, and the intersection of mysticism with social ethics. Astell holds a Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in Medieval English Literature. She has authored or edited over twenty books, including Eating Beauty and Joan of Arc and Sacrificial Authorship. Her accolades include the Guggenheim Fellowship and NEH grants.
- Education: Ph.D. (Medieval English Literature), University of Wisconsin-Madison; M.A. (English Literature), Marquette University; B.S. (English Education), University of Wisconsin-Madison.
- Key Roles: Past President of the Society for the Study of Christian Spirituality and the Colloquium on Violence and Religion.
Her research interests span hagiography as biblical commentary, the Song of Songs in liturgical contexts, and medieval mysticism. Notable works include groundbreaking studies on Chaucer, medieval theology, and interreligious dialogue. Astell has held visiting chairs at Loyola University Chicago and Princeton’s Center of Theological Inquiry.
Publications include over 100 articles and chapters, with recent focus on the Eucharist, fear in Christian spirituality, and social mysticism. She has also translated medieval theological texts, such as works by Aelred of Rievaulx.
Awards and Honors: Guggenheim Fellowship (2001-2002), NEH Fellowships (1991, 2001), Mellon Seminar Member (2011-2013), and multiple travel grants from ISLA and PRF.
Teaching and Leadership: Taught at Purdue University (1995-2007), focusing on medieval literature and theology. At Notre Dame, she teaches courses like Beauty and the Eucharist and Modern Ecclesial Movements.
