What Is Comparative Literature?

How can we best talk about literature? What exactly is literature? What is theory? What is comparison and on what basis may we compare literatures, given their historical, cultural, linguistic, philosophical, and ideological differences? How do these questions fit into our understanding of the values that shape our lives? These are some of the basic questions this course will address as an introduction to Comparative Literature. Based on methods from aesthetics, cultural history, and literary history, the course introduces students to the major trends in the literary arts shaping the discipline of Comparative Literature that have evolved from the early modern to the contemporary era. While designed for students wishing to fulfill one of the requirements for the major in Comparative Literature, it is suitable for all students.