Bruce Bigley (Professor
of English), Chair, Comparative Literature Committee
Comparative literature is the study of literature beyond the confines
of one national literature. It is especially concerned with the similarities
and differences which can be observed in literary works in different
languages. It makes comparisons from various points of view, studying,
for example, movements, periods, genres and themes in two or more
national literatures. Certain types of comparative literature studies
can be highly useful to students in such fields as psychology, philosophy,
anthropology and history, as well as to majors in English and foreign
languages and literatures.
Students interested in working toward a degree in comparative literature
(not offered by this University) should bear in mind that a knowledge
of at least two foreign languages is indispensable for advanced work.
Courses in comparative literature topics are offered at The University
of Montana-Missoula in several departments: English, Drama, Philosophy,
Liberal Studies, Foreign Languages and Literatures, Native American
Studies, and Asian Studies. For advising see the chair.