Dr. Martha Newman

Biography

Martha G. Newman is the Mary Helen Thompson Centennial Professor Emerita in Humanities at the University of Texas at Austin, where she has made significant contributions to the study of medieval European history. Her research emphasizes the intersection of religious practices and social change, with a notable focus on Christian monasticism, particularly monastic miracle collections, and the roles of women and the poor within these contexts. Newman's latest publication, 'Cistercian Stories of Nuns and Monks: A Sacramental Imagination', reflects her investigation into the narratives surrounding religious women in Cistercian communities. Over the years, her work has garnered support from the National Endowment for the Humanities and has featured in respected journals and scholarly works. In addition to her research, Dr. Newman has held several administrative roles, including founding Chair of the Religious Studies Department and Director of the Medieval Studies Program, showcasing her dedication to academic leadership and service. Her teaching encompasses various courses focused on medieval topics, demonstrating her commitment to educating the next generation of scholars.

Research Interests

Courses