Comparative Literature: A Very Short Introduction

Comparative literature is both the past and the future of literary studies, with its history linked to political upheavals. It is a way to learn about other literatures and one's own culture, and to participate in the utopian dream of understanding how nations and languages interact. In an age of migration and border crossing, comparative literature has become increasingly central to the future of the Humanities.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 160 pages
\n Publication date: 22 March 2018
\n Publisher: Oxford University Press
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Comparative Literature is a dynamic field that encompasses both the past and the future of literary studies. Its rich history is intricately intertwined with the political upheavals of modernity, spanning from the colonial empires of the nineteenth century to the postcolonial culture wars of the twenty-first century. Throughout these historical shifts, attempts at comparison have shaped the global agenda of literature, defining its international significance. However, the very concept of comparative literature remains somewhat enigmatic, captivating readers who seek to expand their intellectual horizons but unsure of its exact implications.

Even among professionals, there is no consensus on a single term for this field. In English, it is referred to as comparative literature, while in French, it is known as comparatisme, and in German, it is called Vergleichende Literaturwissenschaft. The term itself, when examined comparatively, reveals a Pandora's box of cultural differences. Yet, this is precisely the essence of comparative literature. By examining literature from a comparative perspective, one gains a profound understanding of the vast knowledge that can be gained by looking beyond the boundaries of one's own culture. It enables individuals to discover not only more about other literatures but also about their own, fostering a deeper self-awareness. Moreover, comparative literature contributes to the grand utopian dream of understanding how nations and languages interact.

In a world characterized by migration and border crossings on the one hand, and by a retreat into monolingualism and monoculturalism on the other, comparative literature has assumed an increasingly central role in shaping the future of the Humanities. We are all, in fact, comparatists, constantly making connections across languages, cultures, and genres as we engage with literature. The question is whether we are aware of these connections and how they shape our understanding of the world.

This Very Short Introduction aims to shed light on the story of Comparative Literature as an agent of international relations. It explores the field from the perspectives of scholarship and culture, providing insights into its historical development, theoretical frameworks, and practical applications. By delving into the complexities of comparative literature, this introduction seeks to empower readers to navigate the global landscape of literature with a broader understanding and appreciation of the diverse literary traditions and cultural contexts that shape our world.

\n Weight: 124g\n
Dimension: 174 x 131 x 9 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780198807278\n \n