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.