Jonathan Culler, the Class of 1916 Professor Emeritus of English and Comparative Literature in the College of Arts and Sciences (A&S), received an honorary doctorate from the University of Paris 8 on March 26 for his contributions to literary and theoretical studies and his close ties with French intellectual movements. The ceremony was followed by a round table discussion of Culler's work by several colleagues, including Philip Lewis, professor emeritus of Romance studies (A&S) and former dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.
Jonathan Culler
"The University of Paris 8 is honored to award an honorary doctorate to Jonathan Culler, a leading American figure in the field of 'French Theory.' This title recognizes his considerable contribution to literary and theoretical studies, as well as his close ties with French intellectual movements," the university said in a citation.
During his distinguished career as a professor at Cornell, from 1977 to retirement in 2020, Culler was one of the main architects of bringing so-called "French thought" to American universities. In particular, Culler was a major source of introduction to Derrida's thought for an English-speaking audience.
Read the full story on the College of Arts and Sciences website.
