Neil Bernstein

Neil Bernstein is a Professor in the Department of Classics and World Religions at Ohio University’s College of Arts and Sciences, where he has been a faculty member since 2004. His research and teaching focus on Roman epic, drama, rhetoric, kinship, and digital humanities approaches to classical literature. He has held visiting positions at institutions such as Western University and the National Humanities Center, and his work has been supported by prestigious fellowships including Fulbright and NEH.

Education:

• Ph.D., Classical Studies, Duke University, 2000
• B.A. summa cum laude, Classics and English, Amherst College, 1994

Bernstein’s research centers on Flavian epic poetry, particularly the works of Statius, Silius Italicus, and Claudian, as well as Roman declamation and rhetorical education. He explores themes such as identity, kinship, spectatorship, and the ethical dimensions of literary representation. His methodological approach combines close reading with digital analysis, contributing significantly to interdisciplinary classical scholarship.

His recent publications span a wide range of topics in Latin literature, including epic intertextuality, textual reuse, and the cultural significance of myth and violence. These works reflect a consistent engagement with narrative structure, ideological function, and reception across periods.

Scientific Awards and Honors:

• 2022-23 Presidential Research Scholar
• 2019 Western Distinguished Scholar in Residence
• 2018 Outstanding Faculty Research Award, Ohio University
• 2014 Distinguished Mentor Award, Ohio University Honors Tutorial College
• 2012-13 Charles J. Ping Teaching Fellow
• 2011-12 NEH Fellow, National Humanities Center
• 2008-9 Fulbright Lecturer, National Taiwan University
• Recipient of Loeb Classical Library Foundation grants and fellowships

Bernstein has advised and served on numerous Ph.D. and M.A. committees at institutions including the University of Iowa, University of Illinois, and University of Western Ontario. He has co-led faculty learning communities on pedagogy and received internal grants for digital humanities research. He is also active in professional service, including editorial roles and participation in the College Board’s AP Latin Development Committee.

He is affiliated with research groups and projects focused on digital classical studies and has collaborated on initiatives that integrate computational methods with traditional philology.