Allan Humphrey Pasco
- Hall Distinguished Professor of Nineteenth Century Literature
Contact Info
Office Phone:
Wescoe Hall, room #2053
Biography —
Allan H. PASCO, Hall Distinguished Professor of Nineteenth-Century Literature, came to the University of Kansas in 1989. His research and teaching focuses on French literature and culture of the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries. He is especially interested in the way literary attitudes reflect society, especially regarding crises initiated by wars, the Industrial Revolution, and the change from an agricultural to a capitalistic economy. The prescience of these writers of long ago becomes increasingly obvious. Not only do they enlighten our attitudes towards our fellow human beings, but they also map out well in advance the public events and crises that are repeated today. Professor Pasco is listed in the Marquis Who's Who in America.
Research —
I am currently finishing my 10th book, tentatively titled "Balzac, Literary Sociologist." Balzac's ability to bring the most important features of society to our attention artistically explains some, at least, of his power. More generally, I am especially interested in the way close reading reveals literary attitudes of society, especially regarding crises initiated by wars, the Industrial Revolution, and the change from an agricultural to a capitalistic economy.
Research interests:
- 18th-, 19th-, 20th-century French culture and literature, French Cultural Studies: 1761-1840
Teaching —
Teaching interests:
- French
- culture
- literature
Service —
I have always been active in the department, the college, and the university. I recently served a term on the University Senate, as I have done on two previous occasions, I have been on numerous college committees, and I take an active part in the governance of the department.