Humanities
The Musical Magpie
Composer and amateur archaeologist Melissa Dunphy, GR’17, finds inspiration all around her—even beneath her feet.
Who Was Artist Mary Josephine Walters?
History often overlooks 19th-century female artists. Aili Waller, C’24, spent three years solving the mystery of one from the Hudson River School.
Finding Light in Dark Times
Professors Deven Patel and Steven Weitzman discuss why Diwali and Hanukkah, both festivals of lights, can act as symbols of hope.
Marching With Giants, Past and Present
The Eternal Soldier initiative uses the power of stories—ancient and modern, alike—to empower veterans.
Life Advice from Aristotle
A new book by Philosophy’s Susan Sauvé Meyer gives tips from the philosopher’s “Nicomachean Ethics” on how to live well in any age.
Emily Wilson’s Epic Life
The Classical Studies professor on the power and responsibility of translation, the allure of ancient worlds, and the value of the strange.
Transforming Asian American Studies
The evolution of the Asian American Studies program at Penn.
New Faculty
Penn Arts & Sciences welcomed 18 new faculty members for the 2023–24 academic year.
Our Brand of Learning
Editor's Note
Three Questions: On Laughter
Corine Labridy, Assistant Professor of French and Francophone Studies, writes and teaches about laughter, as well as its role in building identity and making sense of tough times.
Building on Success
Penn’s program in Cinema & Media Studies becomes an academic department.
Online Content: Fall/Winter 2023
Visit our multimedia page for exclusive content that covers all aspects of Penn Arts & Sciences research, including faculty, students, alums, and events. Below is just a small sampling of recent highlights.
Balancing Ballet
Ayesha Patel, C’25, designed a plan that allowed a Philadelphia dance company to revive a program for younger supporters.
From the Clubhouse to the Tonys
Commercial theater producer Tim Bloom, C’17, reflects on the art of making people laugh and the chance opportunities that shaped his path from Penn’s premier musical comedy troupe to Broadway.
Flow Motion
Courses across Penn Arts & Sciences show how immersion enhances a liberal arts education.