Richard A Layton

Richard A Layton is an Associate Professor in the Department of Classics at the University of Illinois, affiliated with the School of Literatures, Cultures & Linguistics. He holds additional appointments as Associate Professor in the Religion Program and the Medieval Studies Program. His research focuses on the history and reception of the Bible, early Christian development, and Greco-Roman philosophy and religion.

Education: PhD in Religious Studies from the University of Virginia (1996), M.Div from Emory University (1986), and BA from University of Virginia (1983).

Teaching includes courses like RLST 110 (World Religion) and RLST 202 (New Testament in English). His work bridges religious education policy and ancient intellectual history, emphasizing civic engagement and interdisciplinary approaches. Recent publications address religion's role in public education and early Christian exegetical practices.

His scholarship examines intersections between classical philosophy and early Christian thought, with a focus on figures like Didymus the Blind and Origen. Collaborations include co-authoring works on civic education frameworks for religious studies in public schools. Layton's research underscores the importance of historical context in modern educational debates.