Larissa Taylor

Larissa Taylor is a Professor of History at Colby College, specializing in medieval and early modern Europe and the ancient Near East. She served as Vice President, President, and President Emerita of the American Catholic Historical Association (2010–2012). Her research focuses on cultural, religious, and social history, with notable publications including The Virgin Warrior: The Life and Death of Joan of Arc (Yale UP, 2009) and Soldiers of Christ: Preaching in Late Medieval France (winner of the 1996 John Nicholas Brown Prize).

Education:

• B.A., Harvard University
• M.A. and Ph.D., Brown University

Her current book project, The History of Fear from Ancient Egypt to Jack the Ripper's London, examines fear’s historical manifestations, including ancient Egyptian du'at, plague responses, religious persecution, and media’s role in propagating fear. Courses taught include Venice’s history, Tudor England, and the World of Ancient Egypt.

Awards:

• John Nicholas Brown Prize (1996)

Her teaching is known for its humor and interdisciplinary focus, blending historical analysis with cultural narratives. No grants or labs are explicitly mentioned, but her work engages with global historical contexts and interdisciplinary methodologies.