When pondering the question, “Why study literature?” Dr. Susan C. Staub answers, “Why breathe? Of course the study of literature helps cultivate skills employers want – analytical and writing skills, the ability to think critically, intellectual curiosity. But it offers so much more.”
“It allows one’s imagination to soar, providing insight into places, times and cultures you could never experience otherwise. It allows glimpses of the beauty of language, images and stories. It teaches empathy and exposes you to other lives and points of view,” she said.
“In short, the study of literature has the potential to make us more fully human.”
Staub is a professor in the Department of English. In addition to teaching Early Modern Literature, she serves as the department’s director of graduate studies. Her scholarly research focuses on aspects of gender in the Renaissance period. She is the author of three books, and was awarded the Board of Governor’s Appalachian State University Excellence in Teaching Award in 2012, Outstanding Graduate Mentor in 2013, and Outstanding Graduate Faculty Award in 2013.
