Denise A. Walen

Denise A. Walen is a Professor of Drama at Vassar College, where she has taught since 1996. Her expertise lies in early modern drama, Shakespeare studies, and gender analysis in literature. She authored Female Homoeroticism in Early Modern Drama (2005) and curated the Folger Shakespeare Library's Here is a Play Fitted exhibition (2013/14). She serves on the editorial board of Shakespeare in Performance: Prompt Books (2016).

Education:

• B.A., Rosary College
• M.A. and Ph.D., University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

Research Interests: Early modern drama, gender dynamics in Shakespearean texts, queer theory, and feminist literary criticism. Her work explores themes of female homoeroticism, performative gender roles, and historical theatrical practices.

Publications: Her scholarship focuses on close textual analysis of Shakespeare's plays and broader early modern theatrical traditions. Recent work includes articles on Romeo and Juliet and Othello, examining gendered interpretations and historical contexts.

Advising & Grants: While no students are listed, her editorial and curatorial roles highlight collaborative academic contributions. She is affiliated with Vassar’s Medieval and Renaissance Studies program.

Labs/Teams: Collaborates with institutions like the Folger Shakespeare Library on exhibitions and digital archives.