Jesse Knutson

Jesse Knutson is a Professor of Sanskrit at the University of Hawai’i Mānoa, affiliated with the College of Languages, Linguistics, and Literature. His research focuses on Sanskrit literature, literary theory, and the cultural history of premodern South Asia, with particular emphasis on Bengal and comparative premodern poetry. He holds degrees from the University of California, Berkeley (B.A. 2000; M.A. 2002) and the University of Chicago (M.A. 2005; Ph.D. 2009).

His notable works include Kāmandaki’s Essence of Politics (2021) and Into the Twilight of Sanskrit Court Poetry (2014), analyzing Sanskrit court poetry and political philosophy. His research bridges textual analysis with historical contexts, exploring how literature reflects socio-political dynamics and spiritual ideals.

• Teaching Excellence: Recipient of the 2017 Excellence in Teaching Award from his college.
• Grants: Endowed Humanities Research Award (2014).

His scholarship engages with Sanskrit epics, courtly poetry, and the intersection of aesthetics with political power. He also contributes to translations of Bengali poetry and serves as a peer reviewer for major journals in South Asian studies.