Scholar examines comedy, from the ancient Greeks to the present, through recurring elements and themes: the physical body, marriage, pain,…
the humdrum of existence, death. Discusses the idea that comedy and tragedy are not true opposites; comedy presupposes rather than precludes tragedy. 2013.
Professor of comparative literature offers a broad overview of the evolution and varieties of theatrical performance, from origins in ancient…
Egypt, Greece, and Rome; to classical India and China; to medieval England and Japan; and to contemporary America and Europe. Explores complex association of dramatic performance and religion. 2014
Scholar and writer looks at the historical foundations of spirituality in the major world religions. Explores the concept of spiritual…
experience and considers its meaning, transformative power, and the impact it has on society. Contrasts spirituality and religion and considers spirituality in philosophy, anthropology, and psychology. 2012