Comparative Literature

Majors contemplating graduate work in comparative literature must have substantial reading knowledge of one foreign language and at least a beginning knowledge of a second. One of these should be French or German.The comparative literature program of study includes courses taught by faculty from all the language and literature departments and from history, political science, urban studies, philosophy, and anthropology. It offers students the opportunity to study literary texts in their historical, social, and cultural contexts. Courses frequently include works of philosophy, history, psychology, anthropology, and the cinema. They aim to help students learn to read and write critically, with greater pleasure and understanding, and to develop greater intercultural awareness. Majors can prepare for graduate study and work in such fields as law, education, publishing, writing, and translation. Because of its interdisciplinary scope, comparative literature is also an excellent choice as one of two majors or as a minor.

Although comparative literature courses involve study of texts from many countries, all are read and taught in English.

Majors contemplating graduate work in comparative literature must have substantial reading knowledge of one foreign language and at least a beginning knowledge of a second. One of these should be French or German.

Comparative Literature majors should consider related elective courses in such areas as English, anthropology, philosophy, and history.