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best professor ever!

hard but worth it

I have taken his class twice and he has challenged me in both classes. I enjoy his style of teaching and he is one of the best teachers I have taken. I think every student should take him in order to get a taste of what it really means to be challenged mentally!

one of my favorite profs at hunter. deep in class discussions, not too many essays but the ones u did have to write u have to know ur text but if u dont do well its ok he'll let u redo it if u go and speak to him about wat he thinks u can expand on. lot of readings to know but interesting. if ur willing to do a lil work take this course.

Knip isn't as tough as he sounds here. If you can write a standard thesis with title :) he's an easy A. I've had him twice and got an A both times. One thing that can be tough he uses theory and critical stuff and every day there is a presentation. He sometimes tries to do too much and can seem short but he's never "rude." I loved him.

Knip is a really great guy and a great professor, I'd reccommend him to anyone.

great teacher, very nice and cares a lot about teaching...gives a lot of readings a few papers but still a great teacher

Literary Theory is quite complicated and prior to this semester I had heard some terrible things about the readings, but Professor Knip has truly made the readings accessible and coherent. If theory is a requirement for your major, I recommend taking this class with Prof. Knip.

One of my favorite profs.

Good prof.

You will hate Prof. Knip if you are lazy and don't do the reading, want to sleep thru class, or are fixed in your ideas or have a closed mind (like some did this semester). You will love him if you want to learn, see things from different perspecxtives, and be challenged. He's passionate and interesting. Never boring and a fair grader.

an easy going and fair guy, yet some theories clearly recieved more attention than others. the study of some of these theories is harmful to anyone who takes what they read seriously.

knip is a great professor! this is my second semester taking him and every course has been an interesting one with him. Make sure you always have a coherant THESIS and TITLE for ALL papers, other then that you'll do fine

Mathew Knip!, he's the best teacher at Hunter College, since i have known him and taken his classes,i have developed a deeper understanding about myself and this world,my life has changed for the better and it is all because of Prof Knip!, he seems a bit tough on the outside but in reality he's most sweet and the kindest person i have ever known!.

A tad harsh in class to those who don't pay attention (or stay awake). However, I found him helpful, knowledgeable, and supportive during office hours; very giving of his time. Tons of reading. If you're willing to work, join Knip for a semester of "enlightenment." Bottom line: I'm a far better writer/thinker now than before I met him.

He knows his stuff and leads pretty good discussions. He IS not a mean or rude guy as some have said. He is not rude to those who disagree with him as I have seen with other debating with him. He is very helpful. You should be on time and always in class however, very strict on that.

excellent teacher, great guy. very clear, challenges his students to look at texts from different perspectives. i got a ton out of this class and highly respect and recommend him.

I was under his teaching when he came to Lehman to teach a class. He is patient, intelligent and very down to earth. He is also FINE AS MAY WINE!! He is a good prof! Whoever fails his class has the IQ of a soda can!!

Prof. Knip is very personable. It's true he uses personal examples to deconstruct what we have already been taught (in the context of lit. theory). But his "agenda" as some have said, is quite clear, that you UNDERSTAND the readings (and apply it in your papers), not that you necessarily agree with him. Be warned-lots of reading for this course.

This man brings dry, difficult-to-read material to the forefront of your daily thoughts. You will begin taking apart the language and motives behind what you hear, but it will be a mind-expanding trip.

Prof. Knip explains it all for you! this class was life changing...it's all about thinking outside the box of what you read...But you need to take this class to learn the skills to do so. Yes, it was difficult and dense and all you want to do is drop it and give up but if you pull through you will learn how to write a consise paper!

He is pompous in class, will try to impose his viewpoints onto his students. But he's a fair grader. The work load is tough, but tolerable. Be sure to study for the quizzes. Avoid missing classes, be on time, laugh at his ironic jokes, nod your head at his redundant statements from time to time. And you'll do fine.

He is a good professor,who shares unconvetinal ideas and opens your eyes to new and unthinkable possibilities.

The readings for the course are not easy. Professor Knip is a fair grader who appreciates independent thought. He will not lower your grade if your paper does not reflect his thoughts and opinions. Be prepared to allow time for slow reading in order to analyze the texts.

he is a little annoying and his assignments absolutely suck. Classes are boring but you must attend. Readings are not usually easy and are boring. If you take this class make sure he likes you and you go see him alot that seems to help boost your grade with him alot.

Professor Knip is very intellectual. However, he presents the material--in this case Literary Criticism and Theory--in a clear and accessible manner. It would worth while to take his class because he really makes you learn how to write an effective paper. His class demands that you be able to think. He is a little disorganized but it doesn't matter

Great Professor. His discussions are really interesting, and totally opens you up to a whole other level of intellectual thinking.

This class changed the way I think and read. The most college level class I have ever taken at Hunter. I took this class in the spring of 08 and Im still going over stuff that we read. I was really intimidated at first but I so glad I stuck w/it. Tough it through and you'll be glad u did.

Knip is very friendly and open and his class discussions are wonderful. He's very intelligent and his insights into the class subjects are crystal clear.

His insight into texts is very interesting since he has a way of looking at things from a completely different view. His grading is a bit odd though

Simply brilliant and entertaining teacher. Although at times he did demonstrate annoyance if we didn't understand the readings, he is full of insight and very approachable. I feel this theory course is essential for any book lover and I would HIGHLY recommend taking Prof. Knip. One of my favorite teachers at Hunter.

To the reviewer 2 below me: yes, I think he does shoot down your ideas - if they reflect racism, sexism, homophobia, etc, which was often the case in mine [our?] class. Otherwise I think he's entirely respectful. However, I agree w/those who said he expects us to understand difficult readings with minimal guidance. Not at all a harsh grader though.

Professor Knip is one of the best teachers I've had for the following reasons: he shows students exactly how to write an thesis driven essay and he pushes you to think very hard about what your ideas are. Most English instructors don't do that. He's very heavy on theory but you'll learn how to do a very careful, close reading of a text.

PROS: Emphasizes thesis and title rather than the overall paper. Gives rewrite opportunities. Quizzes are doable. Fairly nice fellow. CONS: Lots of dense reading. Repeatedly shares his anti-"heteronormativity" and anti-christian biases with students.

Lots of dense reading as people have said, but he reveals the meanings behind the texts in a thought-provoking way. He has a clear perspective which informs his teaching, and it puts off the people who don't agree with him. But he is a progressive and well-informed man who can change the way you think if you listen. Plus, he's a really nice guy.

one of the best courses and best profs i've ever had. knip explains complex concepts with passion, clarity, and with all kinds of examples from every day life. the classes fly by because the conversations are so interesting. life changing. i highly recommend this prof! take him and it will change your life.

He can get really personal and his mood swings from class to class change a lot and it will affect his attitude towards your opinion during discussions. But don't let that deter you. Put forth the effort and ask him for help and things will work out for you. This class requires thick skin and an open mind .Beware

Great professor! Very smart and very helpful! Lots of reading, quizzes, and writing. Class is based on student participation so try and have something thoughtful to say about the readings. Although it was a little hard and lots of reading and interpreting he was really pretty wonderful as far as professors go

He is very smart and very helpful. He really wants everyone to do well. He also gives light to new perspectives. Great professor but a lot of dense reading.

Professor Knip is excellent! His ability to make a challenging genre like critical theory relatively easy is amazing. However, as a black woman who struggles every day to gain respect from the greater society what stood out to me the most is his genuine concern for people of color. I am truly grateful to have met such an outstanding human being.

Professor Knip made an otherwise complex/dry course extremely rewarding and interesting. I wasn't happy that I had to take this course, but I am so happy that I ended up with Prof. Knip for Literary theory. He is really intelligent, funny, personable, creative, etc. His class is laid-back, but he expects us to do really well on our essays.

Dr. Knip is very helpful with his class. He made LEARNING fun and enjoyable. Personally I have learned a lot from him. Having a very limited background on literature, the topics in our class opened my eyes to a whole new world. He gave me skills to understand what a close reading is all about and gave me confidence to go further in my learning

Professor Knip's made a class in a subject that I had absolutely zero interest in taking not only bearable, but interesting.

LOVED this class. I learned so much, and more importantly, improved my writing a lot. I had to put in the work, but it was worth it. Readings were interesting, and I felt that we were really able to go into depth about units rather than just read a bunch of random short stories, which I liked.

LOVED his class. Highly recommend. Tough grader, but let's you rewrite essays. TAKE whatever classes you can with him.

He was a really great professor, he made sure that you were actually learning and understanding the topic but more importantly he made sure you understood your own work. When it came to papers there weren't many, but he made sure that you were clear and concise when proving your point. I learned so much from the class and if I would take him again

Get ready to leave your comfort zone! At first I was like wtf?.. But by the end of the semester.. He was my favorite professor in college. Period. Makes you dig deep and makes u hold a mirror to yourself. He's awesome!

English 306 was an awesome class. There was a lot of reading but, it was all very useful and to the point. The lecturesreadings are good and he provides everyday examples on how they relate to life. If u want 2 do well in the class PAY ATTENTION! Unlike many professors, he is straight 2 the point. He tells you exactly what u need 2 do 2 do well.

This comment is in response to those that have stated that Mr. Knip does not allow for certain thoughts or writing topics. I totally disagree, if you can backup your argumentthesis correctly then all opinions are welcomed. I have taken his course and found it to be great. Additionally, you will learn to be a better writer.

Professor Knip challenged both my thought processes and my writing abilities. Because he refused to settle for or accept mediocrity from me I was forced to deliver the standard of work that was complimentary to and indicative of his abilities as my professor and reflective of what I had learned.

Wish we read more literature and less theory

Makes you think outside the box. If you're a square you'll be uncomfortable.

This was one of the most interesting classes I have ever taken. Every discussion was intriguing and always managed to challenge me in the best ways. I definitely did not leave this class the same person! Professor Knip is an excellent professor and I would definitely take him again. P.S. Keep up with the readings!!

Professor Knip was an excellent Literary Theory professor. I was initially hesitant to take the course; as a first semester freshman the material was intimidating, but Professor Knip helped make difficult theory accessible. He genuinely wants his students to do well, but he expects them to show up, do the readings, and participate in discussions.

If youre looking to learn, get a front row seat. If youre looking for easy, run. Almost every class has student presentations and Prof. Knip stresses how to write titles and thesis statements and how to know if you have an argument or not. Its kind of a boot camp in writing essays. The class was about sex and identity, tho, and on the really coo

lot of reading but it's worth it. interesting discussions. really opened my mind about a lot of things.

We read a lot of theoretical texts in this class. They were hard at first, but by the end of the semester they felt easy because he taught us how to handle them. Knip is an intelligent, kind, open-minded professor and his class helped me know what I believed and prepared me to take on any theory or writing-heavy class in the future.

Excellent professor. You will leave the class with a wealth of knowledge that is imperative for an English major. It was fantastic, BUT it's not an easy A class. You need to know how to write very strong papers. Prepare for many readings (some lengthy and complicated), chapter quizzes, and participation. 3 papers & final exam. Worth the work.

The class was demanding, but I learned a LOT of interesting things. He's pretty funny, is a good lecturer, and has compassion for student needs; he's ok with reasonable compromise. For essays he has high expectations, but he's very clear with directions. He is helpful! This is NOT an easy A. He makes you work hard, but the experience is gratifying.

There is a lot of heavy and difficult reading for this class, but he goes over them in detail in class. Mind expanding. I enjoyed this class a lot!

I took this class on a whim and it was the best decision of my life. Professor Knip is super knowledgeable and passionate about literary crit. His lectures were fun to listen to. A lot of reading, but worth it. Quizzes are easy if you read and study. Gives great feedback on essays so you're not left to fend for yourself. HE'S AWESOME TAKE IT

Professor Knip's class is amazing! There is a fair amount of reading, but all of the works are entertaining and result in interesting class conversations. Be prepared to participate and to step out of your comfort zone, but it will be completely worth it! Definitely the most engaging class I've take at Hunter College. I definitely recommend it!

A tough class but he makes complex ideas easier to understand.

He honestly made me a better writer, he challenges ever writing convention you may have. He presents subjects that could make a church mouse blush but all in the name of looking beyond the surface value of the text and finding the argument. Be ready to be put through the wringer but come out better.

Awesome professor! Not easy. And you do have to write (and rewrite) a lot--not from his perspective--but from the critical perspective of the theory you are using.

I found him HILARIOUS. He is very sarcastic but also compassionate ; he challenges you as a writer but gives good feedback and opportunities to rewrite assignments. He is demanding at times and can seem tough but he is actually super chill and encourages you to think for yourself and question authority/establishments.

Professor Knip is a tough grader, but he is a really cool person. He is SO smart and funny, and class discussions are always enjoyable. He really challenges you as a writer, not because he is mean, but because he believes in his students and wants us to do well. I've definitely become a stronger writer because of him :) he's awesome.

Professor Knip was an awesome guy! I have never rated a teacher on here, but he needed to be rated. Lots of reading but he makes them understandable and is open to any and all interpretations of the texts. Kind of a tough grader but gives you very thorough feedback so you know what to do for next time.

He made me look forward to going to class, not just because he's so smart, funny, and engaging, but he makes everyone feel like we're learning together, as a group, and from each other. He rewards hard work, that's for sure.

He is caring and will listen if you need help or are falling behind - extremely intelligent, you will learn a lot if you go to class and just listen. Lectures are actually interesting. Kind-hearted but his teaching style may take getting used to, once you get him you will love the class. Quirky with many stories to tell. Overall great experience.

best prof i ever had. teaches you how to think. so helpful. guiding. steps away from dense theory to connect a concept to a relatable life experience of his. class was so intimate in this way. knows how to have a good laugh. kind. accommodating. "sharp" is a good word to describe him. WICKED intelligent, never seen s.o elucidate concepts so clearly

this man will tell you about navigating academia, relationships and life. makes theory as interesting and accessible as can be but he knows that the lessons he imparts on us are equally important. cares so much about his students. even canceled an essay requirement lol. the course is most enriching with him. semi-tough grader, but with purpose. Wow

Fr so funny, talks about the craziest stuff (if ykyk). Lectures had me at the edge of my seat. Very interesting human being. Sooo smart. Understands if you need extensions just let him know. Clear in what he expects. He'll take time to help you succeed. Freed up his entire weekend to read drafts once. What a guy. Will take again any chance I get.

Very interesting class and professor really cares about his students. He likes discussions and hearing your opinion. The work is hard but he is there for any help you may need. Great class if you want to challenge yourself not an easy A. Scares you on the first day but isnt scary at all.

He really cares about his students and his love for what be do really comes through in his lectures. I learned so much not only from the material but also through our many class discussions. I cant thank you enough for the impact youve had on my college experience and my entire life. Thank you!!

Professor Knip really cares about his students and although he may appear strict and stern at times, he really looks out for everyone. This is a very discussion-based course, but he doesn't force people to talk if they are uncomfortable; if you feel the conversation really resonates, you can voice your thoughts freely. Great class, great professor.

Prof Knip is great! Very interesting discussion with interesting (but sometimes long) readings. Heavy participation based, but doesnt force you to speak up if you dont feel comfortable. sometimes is late giving back grades, but is very flexible with due dates bc of that. gives great feedback on your writing as well. i loved it and him!

English is honestly not my favorite subject. I HATE reading but the professor helped sectioning the book into many sections and gave us time to read on our own. Even though the final was an essay which is about 7-8 pages he helped us along the way. He is very understanding.

Professor Knip is one of the best professors Ive seen in the English department. He is very inspirational and funny and you can tell he cares about his students. Literary theory is a difficult subject- make sure to do the readings and youll be fine. There were weekly quizzes based off memorization. Last day of class, Knip got us pizza, was nice.

Professor Knip was probably the best professor I've ever had. He can be a bit intimidating at times but only because he's so wildly intelligent and will expect you to engage with the material he assigns. However, he will also really work with you as a student if you show that you want to be in his class. Pretty funny guy, too. Great experience.

We had one final paper, but it was an expansion essay. First, was 2 pages, then 5 pages, and the final was was around 8-10. With each draft Knip gave amazing feedback on how to improve it. His syllabus is the only negative thing. He likes to throw in a bunch of stuff without alarm but it very manageable. He also got us pizza on the last day

A very good professor -- knows a lot about Moby Dick and Hermann Melville (that's his speciality). Only had one paper-- gave amazing feedback. He will slow down if he sees students struggling.

Professor Knip is one of the most thoughtful, challenging, and encouraging professors I have had the pleasure of working with. I think of his course often (I took it in 2021), and I genuinely feel that his lectures changed my life. He prepared me to be a critical thinker, and more importantly, he taught me that words matter.

Professor Knip was a very smart and great professor. Besides the weekly quizzes, two papers and presentation his class was straightforward and interesting. Class was tough in the beginning of the semester but digressed towards the end. Make sure to participate and study for the quizzes (Normally 5-10 vocab words)

Professor Knip is a thoughtful, challenging, and engaging instructor. While the course can be demanding, especially with weekly quizzes and papers, his insightful lectures and feedback make it worthwhile. Unstuck ai was a great study tool to supplement the readings and prepare for assessments.

In-class essay's and super easy quizzes after the end of each topic; very relatable & funny prof who made lectures interesting. best prof I've had at Hunter. As long as you follow what he wants you to do, you'll excel in the class. Make sure you participate too— he appreciates that, as would all profs. downside: unclear guidelines for final essay

Poetics of Desire lit class, incredible syllabus. He had us reading Delany, Deleuze and Guattari, and the class was structured around deeply critiquing capitalism and the foundations of our desire. Heavy on the readings but he's great at dissecting the readings and encouraging students to participate even if the content is hard to understand. 10/10

Dr. Knip is a wonderful, experienced and knowledgeable professor. He expects great work.