John C. Hampsey

Dr. John C. Hampsey is a Professor of English at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. He holds a Ph.D. in English Literature from Boston College (1982) and a B.A. in English from Holy Cross College (1976). His research and teaching interests span British Romanticism (especially William Blake), Victorian Literature, Classical Greek Literature, Existentialism, the History of the Novel, and Western Intellectual History. He has authored multiple books, including Soda Lake (a novel), Kaufman's Hill (memoir), and Paranoia and Contentment (intellectual history).

His scholarly articles explore themes such as psychological narrative, moral philosophy in literature, and interdisciplinary approaches to classical texts. Hampsey has received prestigious awards, including the University Distinguished Teaching Award (2005) and CLA Student Council Teacher of the Year Award (2005). His work often bridges literature with philosophical inquiry, examining identity, existential dilemmas, and the interplay between narrative form and thematic content.

Teaching-focused, his career emphasizes student engagement and innovative pedagogy, reflected in his President's Service Award (2004). Though no formal advising roles or grants are listed, his extensive publications and awards underscore his contributions to literary scholarship and education.