Dr. David Stern

Biography

David Stern is the Harry Starr Professor of Classical Modern Jewish Hebrew Literature and a professor in the Department of Comparative Literature at Harvard University. He specializes in Classical Modern Hebrew Literature, biblical interpretation, and the intersection of contemporary literary theory and ancient medieval exegesis. His research interests focus on the history of the Jewish book, both in antiquity and in the modern context, and he has explored topics such as the cultural biography of the Talmud and the poetics of Talmudic narrative. Stern has a robust record of academic publications, including books and co-edited volumes that address Jewish literary cultures and the material history of the Jewish Bible. His teaching emphasizes the reading of primary sources in their original languages, along with translation work that spans the entirety of Jewish literary history from the Hebrew Bible to contemporary works. He has held various academic positions, including visiting professorships at Hebrew University in Jerusalem, Princeton University, and the University of Washington, and has received multiple fellowships and grants throughout his career.

Research Interests

Experience