Jon Hughes

Jon Hughes is a Reader in German and Cultural Studies at the Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures, Royal Holloway. He serves as Programme Director for German and previously held the position of Head of Department (2013–2015). His research focuses on German and Austrian cultural history between 1918–1945, with special emphasis on Weimar cinema, cultural responses to sport, and the works of Joseph Roth and Max Schmeling. He is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.

Education:

• Bachelor's/Master's at New College, Oxford
• PhD from University of Wales Swansea (2000)

Research Interests:

• Weimar Republic film culture, particularly Menschen am Sonntag
• Cultural politics of Nazi Germany
• Literature of anti-fascist exile
• Max Schmeling's role as a national icon
• Joseph Roth's exploration of modernity

His publications include People on Sunday (2025), an acclaimed study of Weimar cinema, and Max Schmeling and the Making of a National Hero (2018), which examines the boxer's cultural significance. His work bridges interdisciplinary approaches, combining film studies, literary analysis, and sports history.

Teaching: Leads courses on German cinema, comparative literature, and film studies. Courses include National Socialism and The Third Reich in German Film and International Film: Contexts and Practices.

Engagement: Gives frequent lectures and presentations on Weimar culture and German sports history. Serves as an external PhD examiner and supports postgraduate research in his areas of expertise.