Dr. James Purkis

Biography

James Purkis is an Associate Professor in the Department of English and Writing Studies at Western University. He earned his PhD from the Shakespeare Institute in 2005, with a focus on early modern literature and its reception, particularly the role of authorship. His research draws on recent theoretical debates regarding theatrical collaboration and the contributions of women writers in the seventeenth century. Purkis is currently writing a book that investigates the social practices involved in the production of theatrical texts. He analyzes documentary traces to understand how these practices inform our understanding of authorial canons, especially within Shakespeare's work. His interests also include editorial theory, particularly how writing in early modern England was influenced by evolving notions of masculinity and desire. He has a forthcoming monograph titled 'Shakespeare &C.: Manuscript, Collaboration, Canon Theory', which will integrate textual studies with historicist critiques of authorship. His selected publications include an upcoming piece on 'Foul papers, Prompt Books, Thomas Heywood’s Captives'. He is established in the field of early modern dramatic manuscripts and editorial practice.

Research Interests