Patrice D. Rankine is a dynamic force in the world of ancient studies, blending his deep knowledge of the Greco-Roman classics with a keen awareness of their relevance in contemporary discussions on race, literature, and performance. A graduate of Brooklyn College, City University of New York, where he earned his BA in ancient Greek, Rankine completed his PhD in classical languages and literatures at Yale University. His academic journey reflects a commitment to excellence and a passion for uncovering the layers of meaning within classical texts and their enduring impact on modern culture.

Rankine’s scholarly work is marked by an innovative approach to the classics, particularly in exploring their afterlife in literature and theater. His book Ulysses in Black: Ralph Ellison, Classicism, and African American Literature (2006) redefined how the Greco-Roman tradition intersects with African American cultural history. This was followed by Aristotle and Black Drama: A Theater of Civil Disobedience (2013), where Rankine explored how Aristotle’s ideas have influenced black theater and its role in social-justice movements. As a coeditor of The Oxford Handbook of Greek Drama in the Americas (2015), he further cemented his reputation as a scholar who bridges classical antiquity with contemporary issues.

Beyond his scholarship, Rankine is a dedicated educator, having won an Excellence in Teaching Award at Purdue University, where he has inspired countless students to engage with ancient texts through the lens of modern theoretical approaches, including race, queer theory, and performance studies. His academic leadership is equally impressive, with significant administrative roles, including serving as dean for the School of Arts and Sciences at the University of Richmond.

Rankine’s current research continues to push the boundaries of classical studies. His book Theater and Crisis: Myth, Memory, and Racial Reckoning, 1964–2020 (2024) offers a critical examination of how theater has responded to moments of racial crisis in modern history. His project Slavery and the Book explores the historical and cultural connections between slavery and classical texts, a topic that has taken him to Brazil for in-depth research and led to the organization of an international symposium.