Douglass Parker, professor of classics emeritus at the University of Texas at Austin, died of cancer on Feb. 8, 2011. He was 83.
After service in the Navy (1945-1946), he graduated from Michigan in 1949. He earned a Ph.D. in classics from Princeton in 1952. Parker then was an instructor at Yale (1952-1955), rose to full professor at UC, Riverside (1955-1967), and was a professor at UT, Austin for 40 years, before retiring in 2007.
Parker taught Greek and Latin languages and literature, and also a subject of his own making — Parageography, the study of imaginary worlds. He was best known for his translations of Greek and Roman comedies, one of which was a finalist for the National Book Award in translation. His translations have been repeatedly republished and performed worldwide, especially his Lysistrata by Aristophanes.
He had a passion for jazz music, and played trombone throughout his life. His band played at many events in Austin. Elements of jazz improvisation and creativity formed aspects of his teaching and research.
Parker was predeceased by his wife, Haverly. He is survived by three children, including Douglass Jr. ’74 and Alison ’76; and a grandson.
Graduate memorials are prepared by the APGA.