Derek Cohen, a professor emeritus of the English Department in York University’s Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies, passed away peacefully on Oct. 11.
Cohen, a beloved member of the English Department, came to York University in 1968 and taught Shakespeare and Renaissance drama until his retirement in 2008. He was revered by his students and colleagues for his wit, sharp intellect and compassion, and for opening new realms of understanding in his classrooms.
Former student Eva Brandt, said, “I met Professor Cohen in my second year of university and, after meeting him, I made sure to take every course that he taught in the English Department. His appreciation and enthusiasm for 17th- and 18th-century literature was palpable in his classrooms. His wry sense of humour always kept his students laughing during class and made learning fun.”
Cohen cultivated a passion for literature – namely Shakespeare – in his classrooms, which he passed on to his many students. He was often heard quoting excerpts from various plays, then following up with a lesson on context. He was a wise, charismatic and supportive mentor to graduate students and a source of warm counsel for younger faculty members. Cohen is remembered for his positive influence on those who had the pleasure of knowing him.