Erik Wade: Research, SUNY Oswego & LGBTQ+ Themes - Uncovered!
Is the past truly past, or does it echo with the whispers of those who were once silenced? Exploring the work of Erik Wade, particularly his groundbreaking research on early medieval English texts, reveals a complex interplay of history, identity, and the often-overlooked narratives that shape our understanding of the past and present.
The realm of medieval studies, often perceived as a bastion of traditional scholarship, is undergoing a vital re-evaluation. Dr. Erik Wade, a prominent figure in this field, is at the forefront of this transformation. He's challenging long-held assumptions and bringing to light marginalized voices that have, for too long, been absent from the historical record. His work shines a light on how early medieval English studies have, in many instances, treated queer and trans themes, often feeling compelled to defend the heterosexual masculinity of both historical and fictional characters.
To better understand the person behind the work, let's delve into the biography of Erik Wade, the scholar who is redefining the study of medieval history. Here is a detailed bio data table for reference:
| Full Name: | Erik Christopher Wade |
| Date of Birth: | July 31, 1979 |
| Age: | 45 years old (as of November 2024) |
| Place of Birth: | CNY (Central New York) |
| Education: | Onondaga Community College (Undergraduate), SUNY Oswego (BA, History and English, Minor in Medieval and Renaissance Studies, Class of '09) |
| Current Position: | Assistant Professor of English and Creative Writing, SUNY Oswego |
| Specialization: | Medieval English Literature and History, Sexuality and Race |
| Research Focus: | Queer and Trans themes in early medieval English texts, Global origins of the ideas of sex and race in early English literature and language. |
| Notable Achievements: | Published paper "Skeletons in the Closet: Scholarly erasure of queer and trans themes in early medieval english texts," Received support from the Shineman Endowed Fund to build an archive of LGBTQ+ experiences across SUNY Oswego's history. |
| Professional Affiliations: | SUNY Oswego Faculty |
| Current Residence: | Exeter, NH (formerly Claremont, CA, and Eden, NC) |
| Online Presence: | LinkedIn Profile |
Wade's research digs deep into the complexities of the past, exploring themes often overlooked in traditional scholarship. His paper, Skeletons in the Closet: Scholarly erasure of queer and trans themes in early medieval English texts, is a direct challenge to the established narratives. He meticulously examines how queer and trans themes have been treatedor, perhaps more accurately, mistreatedin early medieval English studies, pointing out the sometimes-necessary need to defend the heterosexual masculinity of both historical and fictional characters. This critical perspective is essential for a more accurate understanding of the past, one that reflects the diversity of human experience.
His journey began in CNY, and he developed his intellectual curiosity at Onondaga Community College before transferring to SUNY Oswego. It was at SUNY Oswego, where he double majored in History and English, with a minor in Medieval and Renaissance Studies, that he solidified his passion for the medieval era. This foundation led him to pursue his current position as an Assistant Professor of English and Creative Writing at SUNY Oswego, allowing him to shape the next generation of scholars while continuing his own groundbreaking research. He has also been a Maine DOEs MLTI ambassador.
Wade's impact extends beyond academia. He received the support of the Shineman Endowed Fund to build an archive of LGBTQ+ experiences within SUNY Oswego's history, using recorded interviews of alumni. This archive offers a valuable resource, capturing firsthand accounts and preserving the lived experiences of individuals within the university community. This project underscores his commitment to amplifying marginalized voices and fostering a more inclusive environment.
The research of Wade often engages with questions regarding the interplay of race and sexuality within the historical framework. His work investigates the global origins of these concepts within early English literature and language, inviting a fresh perspective to the way we understand both literature and the construction of identity. His analysis of works such as Alfred the Great and the pursuit of "books most needful to know" unveils a profound need to interpret the era with a fusion of text and images.
Beyond his academic pursuits, Wade's profile on LinkedIn highlights his professional connections and broader community engagement. His online presence further demonstrates the multi-faceted nature of his expertise. Moreover, the mentions of "Erik Wade" found in online searches often present a picture of an individual with multiple facets, spanning geographical locations from Portland, Oregon, to Exeter, New Hampshire, reflecting a life rich with experiences and connections.
In April 2021, Wade was also mentioned as a collaborator on a book exploring race in early England, published by Cambridge University Press, further signaling his significance in the field of medieval studies. His ongoing research continues to influence the larger conversation about how we interpret the past.
Wade's commitment to inclusive scholarship and his pursuit of historical accuracy have made him a pivotal figure. His work encourages a reassessment of the past and promotes a more thorough comprehension of the intricacies of human identity. Wade serves as a reminder that the stories we inherit must be continually scrutinized and reevaluated, that a more comprehensive and fair narrative of history is available.
His research contributes to the ongoing dialogue about representation and inclusion in the study of the past. By bringing these discussions to the forefront, Wade is fostering a deeper appreciation for the complexity and richness of the medieval world. He invites us to question assumptions and to consider how the narratives we create shape our understanding of who we are.
His work does not merely focus on the past; it is deeply relevant to the present. By interrogating historical biases, Wades research aids in developing a more inclusive and equitable understanding of our current society. His work provides tools to critically analyze the way narratives are constructed and challenged in order to promote a sense of justice and belonging.
The impact of Erik Wade's work resonates with the wider scholarly community and beyond, promoting vital discussions and inspiring a more complete view of history. His academic contributions act as a catalyst, fostering critical thinking and urging a more nuanced understanding of the human experience. The legacy of Erik Wade is not just in the scholarly world, but also in society's wider struggle for justice and inclusion.
In addition to his academic and research work, Wade's involvement in initiatives like the Maine DOEs MLTI (Maine Department of Education's Maine Learning Technology Initiative) ambassador program shows his dedication to educational outreach. He shared resources on creating virtual tours, and used virtual tours to show agriculture to the classroom, and shared resources for educators and students to create their own tours to get students involved. This effort shows his eagerness to support learning, promoting accessibility, and engagement with educational tools.
The multiple mentions of Erik Wade in different contexts, including those found through simple search queries, create a picture of a multifaceted individual. His life is a blend of professional endeavors, community engagement, and personal experiences. This variety suggests a life full of activity and a person dedicated to a range of different goals.
His journey, which started in CNY and grew through higher education at Onondaga Community College and SUNY Oswego, is inspiring. His dedication to research, his commitment to inclusion, and his willingness to share his knowledge through mentorship and outreach demonstrate the impact of one individual. Erik Wade serves as a guidepost, reminding us of the significance of inquiry, empathy, and the continuing quest for a more full and just understanding of the world around us.
