The chair of Professor of Poetry at the University of Oxford is an unusual, high-profile academic appointment, now normally held for five years. It carries an obligation to lecture, but is in effect a part-time position, with a small stipend.
It is filled by election, with an electorate restricted to M.A.'s of the university. The elections typically attract media attention, and involve campaigning by proponents of quite diverse candidates (who are not subject to any restriction - anyone may stand). In practice both poets and academics have been chosen.
The shortlist for the position of professor of poetry at Oxford University has been announced, and Christopher Ricks, best known for his writings on the poetry of Bob Dylan, has emerged as a front runner.
Professor Ricks is known for his works on Victorian verse, English drama, Tennyson, Milton, Keats, TS Eliot, and most recently for his book on the work of Bob Dylan, Dylan's Vision of Sin.
The professor of poetry gives a public lecture each term and the Creweian Oration at the university's honorary degree ceremony every other year.
Feeds |
Contact