Arthur Bahr has spent nearly two decades studying ancient books. Now he gets to help shape the future of literature at one of the world's most famous universities.
Bahr, a professor at MIT, has been named head of the institution's Literature Section, starting July 1. An expert on medieval manuscripts — those handwritten books made from animal skin that date back centuries — he joined MIT's faculty in 2007 and has taught there for nearly 20 years.
"Lit@MIT has some of the world's most innovative literary scholars and some of the Institute's most dedicated teachers," Bahr said. "It has also been my home for nearly 20 years, and I feel both humbled and energized by the opportunity to help shape its future."
The dean of MIT's School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences, Agustín Rayo, expressed confidence in the appointment. "Arthur is an exceptional scholar and a proven leader. I am confident that he will guide the unit with judgment, insight, and a deep commitment to its continued success."
Bahr's research focuses on medieval manuscripts, particularly how the physical qualities of these old books — their texture, their wear, their imperfections — connect to the stories they contain. He blends careful analysis of language with attention to the actual objects themselves, finding meaning in both words and materials.
During his time at MIT, Bahr helped lead the Ancient and Medieval Studies program from 2009 to 2018 and again from 2022 to 2023, working with colleagues across the institute to strengthen and expand it. He has also served as curriculum chair and undergraduate officer of the Literature Section.
His dedication to teaching has earned him recognition, including the MacVicar Faculty Fellowship in 2015 and the James A. and Ruth Levitan Award for Excellence in Teaching in 2012. He has also been named a SHASS Faculty Fellow for spring 2027.
Bahr is the author of two books published by the University of Chicago Press: "Fragments and Assemblages: Forming Compilations of Medieval London" in 2013 and "Chasing the Pearl-Manuscript: Speculation, Shapes, Delight" in 2025.
Looking ahead, Bahr is working on a project that brings together two unexpected passions: medieval manuscripts and figure skating. A trained figure skating judge, he sees analogies between sheets of parchment and sheets of ice — both, he argues, are surfaces where performance, inscription, and erasure happen.
"Literature creates opportunities to slow down and reflect on what really matters," Bahr said, "and in a fast-paced, increasingly automated world, those skills are more vital than ever."
Bahr succeeds Associate Professor Sandy Alexandre, who led the Literature Section before this transition.