Faculty Profiles

Colton is a scholar of American literature from the long nineteenth century. His work focuses on early, historical representations of sex and sexuality in the American print archive, especially in the way that print facilitated the proliferation of beliefs regarding sex and how those beliefs eventually calcified into our modern understanding of sexuality. He is particularly invested in exploring the types of sex, sexuality, and modes of relationality that modern understandings of sexuality disregard or leave behind. In his work, Colton draws upon both literary and non-literary texts (such as sex manuels, brothel guides, newspapers and periodicals, and other ephemeral print objects). 

Additionally, Colton studies the intersection of American poetry and studies of gender and sexuality. He is particularly invested in exploring the poetics of sexual expression and the various ways poetry functions as a mode of homoerotic or queer desire. He is interested in the field of poetry and poetics at large and the historical development of poetry as a form. 

Along with his scholarly interests, Colton is dedicated to teaching and tutoring the craft of writing. He is passionate about improving literacy and helping students engage themselves with writing across various fields and interests. Colton is especially drawn to working with, teaching, and supporting underprivileged students, first-generation college students, and others who feel lost or poorly represented in higher education.