Comparative Literature

Comparative Literature is a discipline which examines literature across national, historical, and linguistic boundaries. Literary movements, periods, genres, criticism, and theory are studied from an international viewpoint as are the relationships between literature and the other arts (e.g., film, painting, music) and literature and such disciplines as psychology, philosophy, anthropology, history, and women's studies.

Undergraduate concentrators will establish individualized programs of study in close consultation with a faculty advisor. These programs will offer students the opportunity to increase skills in analytical reading and argumentative writing and to develop an understanding of the interrelationships among several literary traditions. Students who concentrate in comparative literature will acquire training in one or more second languages, study at least two literatures (one of which may be English) in the original languages, and acquaint themselves with some of the essential writings in the theory of literature. Students who choose to write a senior thesis will find it an opportunity for synthesis of earlier course work and further intellectual exploration.

The concentration in Comparative Literature provides excellent preparation for professional studies in fields such as law, journalism, and business, as well as preparation for graduate work in the humanities.