MIT Medieval Scholar Named Head of Literature Section

In a world racing toward automation, MIT just put a champion of slowing down in charge of its literature program.

Professor Arthur Bahr became head of MIT's Literature Section on July 1, bringing nearly 20 years of dedication to helping students find meaning in centuries-old texts. His unique approach treats medieval manuscripts not just as relics, but as physical objects whose very construction tells stories about human creativity and connection.

"Literature creates opportunities to slow down and reflect on what really matters," Bahr says. "In a fast-paced, increasingly automated world, those skills are more vital than ever."

Bahr joined MIT in 2007 and quickly became known for excellence in the classroom. He won the prestigious MacVicar Faculty Fellowship in 2015 and earned the Levitan Award for Excellence in Teaching in 2012. Students and colleagues alike praise his ability to make medieval poetry relevant to modern engineers and scientists.

His scholarly work explores how scribes arranged texts on parchment to create layers of meaning. His latest book examines the Pearl manuscript, a 14th-century treasure that continues to puzzle and delight readers today.

The Ripple Effect

Bahr's leadership extends beyond his own classroom. He helped strengthen MIT's Ancient and Medieval Studies program for nearly a decade, working across departments to show how ancient wisdom connects to cutting-edge innovation. During the pandemic, he served on teams reimagining undergraduate education for challenging times.

His next project bridges his two passions in an unexpected way. As a trained figure skating judge, he's exploring parallels between parchment pages and ice rinks as surfaces for performance, inscription, and erasure. The creative comparison reflects his gift for finding fresh perspectives on old subjects.

Dean Agustín Rayo calls him "an exceptional scholar and proven leader" who will guide the section "with judgment, insight, and a deep commitment to its continued success."

For Bahr, leading the Literature Section feels like coming home. "It has been my home for nearly 20 years, and I feel both humbled and energized by the opportunity to help shape its future," he says.

In an age of instant information, MIT is betting that the patient, careful reading of old manuscripts might teach tomorrow's innovators exactly what they need most.