Professor Dr. Margaret Dempster

Biography

Margaret Dempster is a Professor in the Department of French and Italian at Northwestern University, holding a Ph.D. from Indiana University. She received her B.S. in French Psychology from the University of Wisconsin and pursued her M.A. in French literature at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign. Her doctoral dissertation, titled "Writing, Punishment, Self: A Study of Five Twentieth-century French Novels," delves into themes of narration and identity in French literature. Beyond her academic accomplishments, Margaret has extensive teaching experience, having worked in various educational roles in France, including as an interpreter and English teacher. Her research interests encompass eighteenth- and twentieth-century French literature, women writers of the twentieth century, and the intersections of gender and commerce in French studies. As the Director of the French Language Program, she actively teaches intermediate and advanced courses at Northwestern, collaborates with graduate assistants and peer tutors, and participates in several committees aimed at enhancing language instruction. Margaret's commitment to study abroad programs is evident from her service as a study abroad adviser and her involvement in relevant committees over the years. Additionally, she has contributed to the academic community through her role as the Advertising Manager for the French Review, the flagship publication of the American Association of Teachers of French (AATF).

Research Interests