Margaret D. Bauer

Margaret D. Bauer is the Rives Chair of Southern Literature in the Department of English at East Carolina University (ECU) and a Distinguished Professor at Harriot College of Arts and Science. She serves as editor of the North Carolina Literary Review and has held leadership roles such as past President of the North Carolina Literary and Historical Association.

• Education:
  • B.A., Louisiana State University
  • M.A., University of Southwestern Louisiana
  • Ph.D., University of Tennessee

Dr. Bauer’s research focuses on Southern literature, American literature, and feminist literary analysis. Her work explores themes like gender dynamics, regional identity, and the cultural legacy of Southern authors, including Scarlett O’Hara archetypes, Faulknerian influence, and contemporary Southern fiction.

Her publications span critical editions, author studies, and feminist interpretations of Southern narratives. Key works include analyses of Ellen Gilchrist, Tim Gautreaux, and Paul Green, reflecting her dedication to expanding scholarly understanding of Southern literary traditions.

• Scientific Awards:
  • ECU Women of Distinction (2007)
  • Parnassus Award (2007)
  • Scholar-Teacher Award (2004)
  • Lifetime Achievement Award (2014)
  • North Carolina Award for Literature (2017)
  • John Tyler Caldwell Award (2018)

Dr. Bauer has mentored graduate students and contributed extensively to editorial and leadership roles, particularly in advancing North Carolina literary scholarship.