Is it Madam or Madame President? 

Since America is weeks away from potentially electing her first female president, it is good to brush up on how to address such a ceiling-shattering leader.  The correct term for addressing a female president in English would be "Madam President." The difference between "Madam" and "Madame" is primarily due to language origin and usage: English-speaking countries use “Madam” as a formal form of address most commonly used in professional or official contexts.  

Madam" was historically used to address married women of high social standing. The abbreviated form "Ma'am" evolved from "Madam" and is still used as a respectful form of address, especially in the American South.  

In French, "Madame" is used much more broadly, equivalent to "Mrs." or "Ms." in English.  It's the standard form of address for adult women in France, regardless of marital status, and has no underlying subtext.  

Now for the more nuanced literary part.  Using the French spelling of “Madame” in English-speaking settings, takes on a bit more juice and connotation, especially in literature, fashion, and other leisurely activities.  “Madame” is often used in English to add a touch of sophistication or allure to the subject.  You see this usage in English literature or art to evoke a French or continental European atmosphere of a particular alluring character.  

A vivid example is  “Madame X”  a famous portrait painting by the American artist John Singer Sargent, completed in 1884. The painting is notable for its provocative nature at the time and the controversy it caused.  The original painting showed one strap of her gown falling off her shoulder, which was considered too sensual and scandalous for the time. Her pale skin contrasted against a dark dress was seen as brazen and sexually forward.  Sargent used the title "Madame X" to protect the subject's identity after the scandal, though her identity was well-known in Parisian society as she was married to a prominent banker.  The reputations of both the lady, Virginie Amélie Avegno Gautreau, and the painter suffered horribly after the painting was shown. The public reaction was so negative that Sargent eventually repainted the fallen strap. Despite its initial reception, the painting is now considered a masterpiece and one of Sargent's best works and the story has inspired numerous literary works.  

Back to 2024,  let’s elect our first female President  in the USofA!  Pick up a memento from our MADAM PRESIDENT Collection of Mugs, Tees, Sweatshirts, and Totes here.