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 modern and classical 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, Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures, Native American Studies, and Asian Studies. For advising see the chair.