Dr. Ethan Shagan

Professor

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Biography

Ethan H. Shagan is a trained historian specializing in early modern Britain, whose interests have expanded to encompass the broader landscape of early modern Europe, with a focus on the historical dimensions of religion. His scholarly work primarily revolves around contested spaces of faith in the early modern world. Shagan's notable book, 'The Birth of Modern Belief' (Princeton, 2018), traces the evolution of belief in the Christian West from the Middle Ages to the Enlightenment, offering insights into how notions of belief transformed into modern categories, shaping societal judgments on science and religion. In addition, 'The Rule of Moderation' (Cambridge, 2011) investigates the discourse of moderation in early modern England and its role as an ideological tool wielded for the control of social, religious, and political dynamics. Shagan has also explored the contributions of ordinary people to the English Reformation in 'Popular Politics and the English Reformation' (Cambridge, 2003). His work has earned him several prestigious awards, including the Leo Gershoy Prize and the Roland Bainton Prize for his significant contributions to the field of history.

Research Interests

Experience

Jane K. Sather Professor

2025-01-01 — Present

University of California, Berkeley • Berkeley, CA

Professor

2011-01-01 — Present

University of California, Berkeley • Berkeley, CA

Associate Professor

2007-01-01 — 2011-01-01

University of California, Berkeley • Berkeley, CA

Associate Professor

2004-01-01 — 2007-01-01

Northwestern University •

Assistant Professor

2000-01-01 — 2004-01-01

Northwestern University •

Junior Fellow

1999-01-01 — 2000-01-01

Harvard University •

Awards

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Leo Gershoy Prize

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John Ben Snow Prize

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Herbert Baxter Adams Prize

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Morris D. Forkosch Prize

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Roland Bainton Prize

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Whitfield Prize

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E. LeRoy Hall Award

Requirements for University of California, Berkeley

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
GRE Subject
Overall Score
Required:500
Overall
Required:500
TOEFL
Total
Required:90
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree or recognized equivalent Preparation comparable to undergraduate major at Berkeley in Mathematics or Applied Mathematics 2 full years lower-division work (Calculus, Linear Algebra, Differential Equations, Multivariable Calculus) 8 one-semester upper-division courses (Real Analysis, Complex Analysis, Abstract Algebra, Linear Algebra)
Application Checklist
  • Graduate Application
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Personal History Statement
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • Unofficial Transcripts
  • C.V./Resume
  • Course and Textbook List
Specialization Notes

The Mathematics Subject GRE is required for the Fall 2026 admissions cycle. General GRE is optional.