Emma Stafford

Professor Emma Stafford is a leading scholar in Greek culture at the School of Languages, Cultures and Societies, University of Leeds, within the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Cultures. She was appointed Professor in 2020, having joined Leeds in 2000 and promoted to Senior Lecturer in 2005. Her work bridges classical scholarship with public engagement and interdisciplinary research.

Her educational background includes a BA in Classics from New Hall, Cambridge, an MA from Cambridge, and a PhD from University College London. She held teaching positions at Royal Holloway, Birkbeck, and the University of Leicester before joining the University of Wales, Lampeter in 1995, where she completed her PhD in 1999.

Emma Stafford's research centers on Greek social and cultural history, particularly religion, myth, and art. She employs both literary and material evidence to explore personification deities, classical reception, and the enduring legacy of figures like Herakles. Her work emphasizes interdisciplinary methods, combining philology, archaeology, and visual studies. She has a strong interest in how classical myths are reinterpreted across time, especially in Neoclassical sculpture and modern media.

The trends in her recent publications reflect a sustained focus on the reception of classical myth, particularly the figure of Herakles/Hercules, across historical periods and media—from antiquity to Enlightenment theatre, modern musicals, and oratorios. Her scholarship spans monographs, edited volumes, encyclopedia contributions, and public-facing illustrated books, demonstrating a commitment to both academic rigor and broader cultural impact.

• Publicity Officer, Classical Association (2004–2011)
• Honorary Secretary, Classical Association (2011–2019)
• Honorary Secretary, Society for the Promotion of Hellenic Studies (2005–2008)

Emma Stafford actively supervises postgraduate researchers, including Shakeel Ahmed and Tong Wu, and has led major research initiatives such as the 'Hercules: A Hero for All Ages' project, which involved international conferences, a touring exhibition, an oratorio, and multiple high-profile publications. She has secured collaborative funding and institutional support for public engagement, reflecting her leadership in knowledge exchange. She also serves as Director of Impact from August 2021, underscoring her role in shaping research dissemination and societal influence.

She is a core member of research groups in Classics, Gender Heritage, and Theatre, Music and Performance, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. Her involvement in the 'Hercules' project exemplifies her leadership in creating integrated research environments that combine academic scholarship with public exhibitions, performances, and educational outreach.