Program Overview

Comparative Literature Program

The Comparative Literature Program offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to the study of literature, exploring the rich and diverse traditions of literary expression across cultures and languages.

About the Program

• The program provides students with a deep understanding of literary theory, criticism, and history, as well as the opportunity to engage with a wide range of literary texts and genres.
• Students can pursue a major or minor in Comparative Literature, with courses that meet the SAS Core requirements.

Academics

• Undergraduate Program: The undergraduate program in Comparative Literature offers a major and minor, with a focus on literary analysis, critical thinking, and cultural competence.
• Graduate Program: The graduate program in Comparative Literature provides advanced training in literary theory, criticism, and research, with a focus on preparing students for careers in academia, publishing, and related fields.

People

• Leadership & Staff: The program is led by a team of experienced faculty and staff, including the Director of Undergraduate Studies and the Program Coordinator.
• Core Faculty: The core faculty includes renowned scholars and teachers with expertise in a range of literary traditions and theoretical approaches.
• Affiliated Faculty: The program also draws on the expertise of affiliated faculty from other departments and programs, providing students with a rich and diverse range of perspectives and approaches.

Events

• Event Calendar: The program hosts a range of events throughout the year, including faculty lectures, graduate student colloquia, and undergraduate workshops.
• Faculty Lecture Series: The faculty lecture series features talks by distinguished scholars and writers, exploring topics in literary theory, criticism, and cultural studies.
• Distinguished Speaker Series: The distinguished speaker series brings prominent writers, critics, and scholars to campus, providing students with opportunities to engage with leading figures in the field.

News

• Faculty News: The program highlights the achievements and publications of its faculty members, showcasing their research and scholarly activities.
• Graduate News: The program also features news and updates from its graduate students, including their research projects, publications, and career milestones.
• Undergraduate News: The program celebrates the achievements and accomplishments of its undergraduate students, including their research projects, awards, and study abroad experiences.

Magazines

• Proteus: The program publishes an annual magazine, Proteus, which features essays, reviews, and creative writing by students, faculty, and alumni.
• Comparative Literature Blog: The program also maintains a blog, which provides a platform for students, faculty, and alumni to share their thoughts, reflections, and research on literary topics.

Alumni & Friends

• The program values its relationships with alumni and friends, who provide support, guidance, and opportunities for students and faculty.

Course Detail

195:262: Life Writing in France

• Course Code: 01:195:262
• Semester(s) Offered: Fall
• Credits: 3
• SAS Core Requirement: AHp
• Course Description: This course examines the practice of life writing in France, exploring the complex history and moral debates surrounding this genre. Students will analyze the works of major writers, including Georges Perec, Alain Robbe-Grillet, and Annie Ernaux, as well as best-selling contemporary authors.