Danielle Bean

Describe your dissertation, thesis, or capstone (if you completed one):

[ENGH 790] I have read Ann Radcliffe’s oeuvre, examining the Gothic novel from a feminist perspective. My work positions The Romance of the Forest (1791) as Radcliffe’s most progressive attempt at subversively dismantling patriarchal holds.

How did you choose your specific area of study?

I chose English as my area of study because I owe my life to books. As a child I was drawn to classic works—the further I could travel into the past, the better. The allure of the far removed remained with me all my life and is undoubtedly the reason I was drawn to 18th-century literature. The rise of the novel as a genre: this is where I want to live. I was rescued by the words of Mary Wollstonecraft and strengthened by the work of Defoe. I instantly wanted to know more—and then I wanted to know everything. The time I spent in Professor Alok Yadav’s classes inspired me to pursue my master’s degree and devote my life entirely to literature.

Of which accomplishment(s) during your time at Mason are you most proud?

I am most proud of the writing and research I’ve done on Zelda Fitzgerald in ENGH 500 with Professor Eric Anderson. I hope to revisit and expand upon my work in the future, when I feel better positioned to make a difference.

Are there faculty or staff members who made a difference during your Mason career?

All of my professors have impacted my studies in deep and profound ways, but I am especially grateful to Professor Michael Malouf. Professor Malouf recognized my potential as an undergraduate and nominated me for the Honors program. This was a definitive moment in my time at Mason, as it was something I would have never pursued on my own. I wouldn’t be where I am today without Professor Malouf’s guidance. He helped me to believe in myself.

What advice would you give to an incoming cohort of graduate students?

Work in the library as often as possible. Even though the work we do as students is often solitary, there is something empowering about being in a quiet space with many other people, all doing the same thing: reading, writing, thinking, working. There is a togetherness to be found within library walls that is especially useful when one feels overwhelmed or alone.

What are your current career plans following graduation? What are your long-term career goals?

I plan to pursue a PhD and become a professor of English literature.