Major in Comparative Literature (AB)

Students majoring in Comparative Literature join a vibrant community of scholars, critics, and writers. They acquire broad and rigorous knowledge of literature from antiquity to the present in its historical and geographical contexts. The Major fosters close analysis of the details of literary production and well-informed attention to linguistic as well as cultural diversity and to recent movements in literary and critical theory.

Students are encouraged to shape their insights by exploring related work in other disciplines and to apply their critical skills in a professional internship experience. The flexible, interdisciplinary, student-centered curriculum of the Major in Comparative Literature facilitates combinations with other majors and minors.

Solid knowledge, critical praxis, and strong linguistic endeavor form the foundations of professional skills and creative production. Students are encouraged to acquire abilities and knowledge in three different language areas. Mentored by the department's faculty and their individual advisor, students develop and articulate a personal focus for their reading, which issues in a portfolio of work and a senior thesis in the final year.