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Mark Lussier, Professor Emeritus

On his retirement

Just a year or so into my graduate program, I asked Mark Lussier, from whom I’d only taken one class, to write a recommendation letter for me. His response showed his characteristic enthusiasm: “Of course, I’ll champion your cause!” Little did I know in that moment that he’d continue to champion my cause as my PhD committee chair—and then beyond as a friend and colleague.

If you build it they will come

Teaching Milton in an Arizona prison

I.  Alienation and Postmodernity

The alienation is inherent in the architecture. One heavy metal, dull green door slides automatically shut. Once its motion ceases, the identical door opposite automatically slides open. The Arizona sun raises a blinding glare from the white pebbles, grey concrete and beige barracks, so that the eye is forcefully, irresistibly focused on the hundreds of garish, dayglo orange jumpsuits moving around the yard.