Comparative Literature

OFFICE: Arts and Letters 226
TELEPHONE: 619-594-5307 / FAX: 619-594-4998
E-MAIL: EandCL@sdsu.edu
WEBSITE: http://literature.sdsu.edu

Faculty

Faculty assigned to teach courses in comparative literature are drawn from departments in the College of Arts and Letters.

The Major

Comparative literature is the study of literature from around the world, transcending the restrictions of national and linguistic boundaries. Traditionally, comparative study has been based on literary movements, periods and lines of influence, as well as on genres, themes, myths, and legends. In recent years comparative literature has come to include the comparison of literature with other areas of human experience.

Comparative literature offers students the opportunity to study a broad range of literary subjects from various cultures throughout the world. Courses are offered in European literature from ancient to contemporary times; in the literature of Asia, Africa, and Latin America; in folk literature, legend, fantasy, and science fiction; in literary theory; and in special topics such as travel literature, literature and existentialism, and Japanese literature and film. All reading is done in English translation.

Because the field covers so wide a range, the comparative literature student does not acquire a comprehensive knowledge of any basic list of “great works.” Such a list, for all of world literature, would be far too long. Instead, students learn various approaches to literature, along with specialized knowledge of areas which particularly interest them.

Comparative literature is an excellent major for anyone desiring a broadening and enriching liberal arts education. Its application to foreign cultures is particularly useful for careers in foreign service and international trade. Translating, editing and publishing, journalism, broadcasting, and film are other possibilities, as well as advertising and public relations, politics, writing, library work, and criticism. Comparative literature is also, like English, an excellent foundation for careers in the professions, especially law.

The comparative literature major may also be used as preparation for the single subject (high school) teaching credential in English language arts (see department adviser for more information). Graduate study in comparative literature may lead to teaching at more advanced levels.

Advising

All College of Arts and Letters majors are urged to consult with their department adviser as soon as possible; they are required to meet with their department adviser within the first two semesters after declaration or change of major.

Impacted Program

The comparative literature major is an impacted program. To be admitted to the comparative literature major, students must meet the following criteria:

Complete preparation for the major;
Complete a minimum of 60 transferable semester units;
Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0.

To complete the major, students must fulfill the degree requirements for the major described in the catalog in effect at the time they are accepted into the premajor at SDSU (assuming continuous enrollment).

Major Academic Plans (MAPs)