Elected to the Academy as an Honorary Fellow in 2012, David was widely recognised as one of the most distinguished classical scholars in the world. His research focused on ancient Greek and Latin literature, especially comedy and the novel, and also ancient philosophy, ancient literature and the history of emotions.
He was a major figure in encouraging international dialogue among classical scholars and across disciplines, especially with psychology and cultural studies.
David held teaching positions at Wesleyan University, Brown University and New York University where he was teaching part time in the Classics Department at the time of his death. He also held visiting appointments in New Zealand, Scotland, Brazil, Argentina, South Africa, Australia, and Egypt, among other places.
His close ties with Australia began in the 1980’s. He was a Fulbright Scholar at Monash University in 1988 and a visiting professor at the University of Sydney from 1990-1991.
David was a former president of the American Philological Association (now Society for Classical Studies) from 1998–99, a member of the American Academy of the Arts and Sciences, and of the Society of Biblical Literature.
We extend our sincerest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. He will be greatly missed.
