Michael D. Elam, Ph.D.

Bio

Dr. Michael Elam was born and raised in North Highlands, California, and lived in northwestern New Jersey and the greater St. Louis area before coming to Chesapeake. He holds B.A. degrees in Ministerial Studies from Trinity Life Bible College in Sacramento, and in English from Rutgers University, where he also minored in Ancient Mediterranean Civilization. He also holds a M.A. in English from Rutgers University. Michael received his Ph.D. in English from Saint Louis University, where he concentrated in Medieval Studies, and has taught in higher education settings in various capacities for over twelve years.

Elam’s research interests include Medieval English and Norse literature, classical literature in translation, and fantasy and myth in literature. In his classroom, he uses a largely Socratic teaching method to establish a mentoring relationship with students “in order to expand their academic practices while building their relationship with Jesus.” He adds, “Students in my courses refine ideas and methodologies in order to build their knowledge and strengthen their faith, without fear of making mistakes in the process.”

Elam lives with his wife, daughter and son in the Chesapeake area. He enjoys a variety of activities with his wife and kids. He also enjoys reading — especially science-fiction, fantasy, children’s literature, and folk stories — writing, and listening to music. Although Dr. Elam is a self-described homebody, he engages in a variety of outdoor activities, but mainly yard and garden work. He and his family attend a Presbyterian church in Chesapeake and enjoy fellowship with members of their church community group.

Credentials

Ph.D., English, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO M.A., English, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ B.A., English, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ Minor: Classical Civilization, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ B.A., Ministerial Studies, Trinity Life Bible College, Sacramento, CA Transfer with no degree, American River College, Sacramento, CA

Publications

“Christian Axioms and Cultural Moral Practice: Strengthening Student Faith in Studying Njal’s Saga.”
Intégrité 16.1 (2017): 52-63.

“Analogue , Empowerment, and Pedagogy: Considering the Benefits of Teaching Older Literatures in
Small English Programs.” South Atlantic Review 78.1-2 (2015): 95-109.

“The Value of Imperfection in Anselm of Canterbury’s Marian Prayers.” American Benedictine Review
64.3 (2013): 252-66.

“Reconsidering Emending the Capital at Line 1711 of The Owl and the Nightingale.” American Notes and
Queries 22.2 (2009): 13-18.

Awards

Clarence Miller Award, Saint Louis University, 2007
English Department Award for Highest Distinction in Literary Studies, Rutgers University, 2006
Graduate, Rutgers Honors College, 2004
Madison C. Bates Award for Outstanding Scholastic Achievement in the English Department Rutgers University, 2004