Michael Jay Lieb

Michael was one of UIC English's most prominent research professors in his cohort in the 1980's, which allowed us to install the English Ph.D. program that flourishes to this day. His work on Milton was early recognized as significant and he remained a stalwart at UIC throughout the decades in the Renaissance Literature group.

Michael was my mentor when I arrived at UIC. He offered support and sound advice on my research, navigating the university, and artistic projects. He had a great sense of humor and abiding kindness. The creativity of his projects following themes across long arcs of time and multiple geographies set new precedents. My career and my life are better because of Michael. May his memory be a blessing.

Teaching with Michael in an NEH institute for high school teachers was one of the great privileges of my life. His teaching was as brilliant as his scholarship--and to have him, even intermittently, as a colleague was a joy.

Michael was one of the first people to welcome me when I joined the faculty of the English Department at UIC. He was a kind colleague and a brilliant scholar. I enjoyed hearing him speak at the Newberry Library. He will be greatly missed, and I send sincere condolences to his family.

Michael was my dissertation director at UIC. He was deeply dedicated to his students and his colleagues, and his many great insights regarding the writings of John Milton continue to influence Milton scholarship. But my favorite memories of him concern his deep love for his family.

Michael was a great scholar, a great man, and a generous host. We shall never forget him. John and Beatrice Hale Dunedin, New Zealand

I am so sorry to learn of Michael's passing. He was a good, kind, and decent man, and a generous and meticulous scholar. He will be missed!

Michael added much warmth, interesting conversation and reassurance to my years at UIC. My very sincere regrets, and my condolences to the family.