David Scott Kastan

Kastan considers the interplay between literature and history in early modern England, focusing on how texts are produced, transmitted, and received. His work reflects a deep interest in what he describes as "the new boredom," an exploration of seemingly mundane aspects of text transmission that reveal significant insights into cultural and historical contexts. By editing influential works like Milton’s "Paradise Lost" and Marlowe’s "Doctor Faustus", and co-editing "A New History of Early English Drama", Kastan brings a rich understanding of literary history to his analysis. His scholarship extends beyond literature, as seen in his recent work on the visual arts and the collaborative book "On Color" with Stephen Farthing.\n\nThrough a method that bridges literature and art, Kastan creates a dialogue between different forms of expression and their historical implications. He emphasizes the significance of Shakespearean literature, having served as a general editor for the Arden Shakespeare and editing "1 Henry IV". His scholarly contributions, such as "Shakespeare and the Shapes of Time" and "A Will to Believe: Shakespeare and Religion", offer readers insights into the temporal and spiritual dimensions of Shakespeare’s work. Kastan’s approach benefits scholars, students, and enthusiasts of Renaissance literature, providing them with comprehensive analyses that connect literary works to broader historical narratives. This bio highlights his role as a pivotal figure in both literary criticism and interdisciplinary studies.