Comparative & World Literature
Comparative and World Literature offers exciting and innovative ways to approach comparative literary and cultural studies. The Major in Comparative Literature provides an engagement with two or more literary and cultural traditions, studied in their original languages. The Major in World Literature retains the comparative and international dimension of comparative literature, but focuses on literature and culture from around the globe in English translation (no foreign language required).
There are two concentrations within the major.
The Comparative Literature major provides an engagement with two or more literary and cultural traditions, studied in their original languages. Comparative literature is an interdisciplinary field whose practitioners study literature and culture across national borders, across time periods, across languages, across genres, across boundaries between literature and the other arts (fine and applied arts, music, painting, dance, film, etc.), and across disciplines (philosophy, science, medicine, law, history, architecture, sociology, politics, and the like).
The World Literature major retains the comparative and international dimension of comparative literature, but focuses on literatures and cultures from around the globe in English translation (no foreign language required). World literature refers to literature that has a readership and an impact beyond its original language and cultural area.
- CWL 112—Literature of Global Culture
- CWL 114—Global Consciousness and Literature
- CWL 201—Comparative Lit Studies
- CWL 241/242—Masterpieces of Western Culture I / Masterpieces of Western Culture II
Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.
Many students pursue a diverse range graduate studies, including literature, law, editing and publishing, library science, translation, international studies, diplomacy, medicine, sociology, political science, theology. Alumni confirm the effectiveness of Comparative and World Literature in preparing them for their chosen careers: critical analysis, foreign language proficiency, writing skills.
- Clear and articulate writing
- Critical thinking
- Deeper understanding of intercultural and transnational relations
- Diverse range of critical problem solving tools and techniques
- Experience in both the theoretical and practical issues of cross-cultural work
- Interdisciplinary perspective
- Logical and persuasive argument
- Thoughtful analysis of written, oral, and visual materials
- Administrative Assistant
- Campaign Manager
- Communications Specialist
- Copywriter
- Critic
- Editorial Assistant
- Education Director
- Historical Society Specialist
- Journalist
- Lawyer
- Librarian
- Lobbyist
- Museum Curator
- Non-profit Administrator
- Politician
- Research Assistant
- Research Writer
- Teacher
Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.
- Participating in undergraduate research
- Applying for a study abroad experience
- Utilizing resources of The Career Center
- Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
- Model United Nations: increases student knowledge and awareness of global relations through simulations of the United Nations.
- Tandem Learning Club: provides a forum where International and American students can meet and learn each others languages together. Students can learn from each other and make connections with others from around the world and become friends in the process.
There are several professional organizations dedicated to Comparative and World Literature. Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Comparative and World Literature. These organizations include American Comparative Literature Association and International Comparative Literature Association.