Above his computer hangs a black and white photograph of Leo Strauss, a professor of political philosophy whose desire to revive traditional approaches to the field spawned an influential movement in conservative politics.

Mansfield, a devoted “Straussian,” has devoted much of his life to the defense of traditional political theory.

When Mansfield speaks, it is hard to believe that he is the controversial professor whose unapologetically abrasive statements have made headlines across the country.

He speaks with a deep, soft voice.

Colleagues have noted Mansfield’s firm dedication to his students.

He recently attended one of his advisee’s ballet performances and tries to see every Harvard football game.

“There is a disjunction between his public political position and how he interacts with his students,” Verba says. “Whatever his views are about gender or race, he has been a mentor to many women.”

And it seems that, despite the politics and the disagreements, Mansfield has earned the respect of many of his colleagues.

Professor of Government Michael J. Sandel, who plays squash with Mansfield twice a week and has co-taught courses with Mansfield in the past, speaks of his colleague—and his colleague’s “fierce” yet “gentlemanly” demeanor on the squash court—with admiration and care.

“Harvey Mansfield is a Harvard treasure, a one-man antidote to liberal complacency,” Sandel says. “I disagree with almost all of his political views, but his presence enlivens the government department, and Harvard, immeasurably.”

“He is exactly where he belongs,” Verba says. “On the Harvard Faculty.”

—Staff writer Rebecca D. O’Brien can be reached at robrien@fas.harvard.edu.