Kenneth Hodges

Kenneth Hodges is a Professor in the Department of English within the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences at Virginia Tech. He joined Virginia Tech in 2017 after serving as a Professor at the University of Oklahoma (2005-2017), Assistant Professor at Keene State College (2003-2005), and holding various visiting positions at Bates College, Allegheny College, and the University of Oklahoma.

• Education: Double major in English and Physics, Master's degree in Mathematics, Ph.D. in Medieval English Literature
• Current Position: Professor, Department of English, Virginia Tech (2017-present)
• Location: 209 Shanks Hall, 181 Turner Street NW, Blacksburg, VA 24061

Hodges specializes in late medieval and early modern literature of King Arthur, with particular expertise in Malory and Spenser. His research bridges literary analysis with geographical and cultural studies, examining how regional identities shape national narratives in Arthurian literature. His interdisciplinary background in both humanities and mathematics informs his precise analytical approach to textual interpretation. He has taught courses including Medieval Literature, Renaissance Literature, Shakespeare, Chaucer, Introduction to Old English, and Race in Pre-Modern Literature.

Hodges' scholarly output reveals a consistent focus on the intersection of geography, national identity, and Arthurian legend, with notable evolution from studies of individual characters and textual communities toward broader examinations of spatial representation and cultural transmission. His work demonstrates sophisticated integration of literary theory with historical context, particularly regarding religious transformation during the Reformation period and its impact on Arthurian narratives.

• James Randall Leader Essay Prize for "How Galahad Regained His Virginity"
• Tony Hilfer Prize for "Reformed Dragons"

Hodges has served on various university committees including the Teaching Evaluations Ad Hoc Committee as Co-chair (2021-2022) and participated extensively in professional development activities focused on digital learning, cybersecurity, and teaching methodologies. His current research explores how early modern English authors used martial forms including romance, heraldry, fencing, and archery to categorize and understand the world and its history.