Matthew Sommer

Matthew Sommer is the Bowman Family Professor of History and holds a courtesy appointment in East Asian Languages and Cultures at Stanford University. He specializes in Chinese legal and gender history, with a focus on the Qing Dynasty. His research explores topics such as law, sexuality, and social norms in imperial China.

Education:

• Ph.D., University of California, Los Angeles (History, 1994)
• M.A., University of Washington (International Studies: China, 1987)
• B.A., Swarthmore College (Political Science, 1983)

Research Interests: Chinese Legal History, Gender Studies, Qing Dynasty, Sexuality in Imperial China, and East Asian Studies.

Recent Articles: His work includes studies on transgender histories in late imperial China, legal understandings of violence, and the role of print media in disseminating legal knowledge. Recent publications span 2024 to 1996, with a focus on gender, law, and social dynamics.

Honors & Awards: Recipient of the Yalom and Litt Awards (2006), Ellen Andrews Wright Faculty Fellow (2006-2007), and multiple fellowships including the National Resource Fellowship (Chinese, 1990-1991).

Advising & Grants: Advises doctoral students in gender and legal history. Served on numerous academic committees at Stanford, including the History Department’s honors program and library initiatives.

Labs/Teams: Collaborates with interdisciplinary teams on projects related to East Asian history and gender studies.