Comparative Literature

Ever wondered how stories are formed? Who shapes the narratives, and how different cultures react to them? Drawing from history, sociology, politics, film, philosophy, and gender studies, you’ll think deeply about the different stories around us.

Unpick the aftereffects of colonialism, the importance of children’s literature, and who decides which books we remember. You’ll also consider why we don’t have a world system of literature, and whether such a thing can exist.

Literature without walls

We offer a truly global degree. Not confined by national boundaries, we explore storytelling from across the world, from the cultural diversity of our London East End home to Asian and North African literature. You’ll also benefit from the endless libraries, galleries, concert halls and theatres right on your doorstep, where you can challenge your literary perspectives further.

In the largest department of comparative literature in the UK, you’ll be taught by experts with extraordinary real-world links. They have global charity connections with the Wellcome Trust and feature on Stephen Fry’s ‘Edwardian Secrets’ podcast.

Having gained sought after analytical and presentational skills, join our graduates in a range of careers from publishing to teaching and marketing to journalism. Whatever you decide is next for you, you’ll be ready to impress at interviews.

Course Modules

Compulsory Modules
Year 1:
Brief Encounters: Around The World In Short Stories
Beyond Compare:  Literature Across Borders
Knowledge and Power
Myth, Modernity, and Metamorphoses
Understanding Global Cultures: Exploring the Big Questions

Remaining credits to be chosen from a range of optional modules.

Assessment typically includes a combination of exams and coursework, or coursework only. The final year may include completion of a research project.