Joseph E. Becker

Dr. Joseph E. Becker is a Professor of English and Program Coordinator/Lead Faculty in the English Program at the University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK), part of the College of Humanities and Professional Studies. He holds a Ph.D. in Comparative Literature from the University of Arkansas (2002) and multiple advanced degrees in English Literature. His research focuses on archetypal dynamics in European Romantic literature, particularly Jungian shadow theory, and mythopoesis in J.R.R. Tolkien's works. He has published extensively in literary encyclopedias and authored/co-authored pedagogical texts like Teaching College Composition.

Education: Ph.D., Comparative Literature (University of Arkansas, 2002); M.A., Comparative Literature (University of Arkansas, 1999); M.A., English Literature (Winthrop University, 1990); B.A., English Literature (Winthrop University, 1988); Certificate in Weather Forecasting (Penn State, 2014).

Research interests include literary archetypes, Jungian psychology, and composition pedagogy. His work bridges classical and modern texts, with recent focus on Tolkien's mythological frameworks. He also engages in transformative language arts initiatives and co-founded Old Sylvain House Press (2020).

Key affiliations include the North Woods Jung Society (Co-Founder/Director since 2005), WE LEARN, and professional organizations like Northeastern Modern Language Association. His publications span encyclopedic entries, poetry analysis, and pedagogical guides.

Professional activities include conference presentations on topics like Tolkien's intertextuality, Jungian dream analysis, and Shakespearean sonnets. He has organized literary events such as virtual book launches and educational workshops.