English and Comparative Literature

This degree combines the study of English literature with different literatures from around the world.

You’ll choose from the whole range of options in the School of English, including writers from Africa, Asia, Australasia, Canada and the Caribbean. You’ll also study texts (from translations) in Ancient Greek, Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Latin, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish, taught by literature specialists from the School of Languages, Cultures and Societies.

Studying English and Comparative Literature allows you to learn about how literature circulates globally and how it intersects with aesthetics, cultural studies, economics, ethics and politics. It also enables you to think about the relationship between literature and other arts, including cinema, graphic novels, music, painting and videogames.

Compulsory modules will introduce you to the concept of world literature and issues such as adaptation, genre, narratology and reception. You’ll choose from a wide range of optional modules to pursue topics that interest you.

Your tutors will provide diverse expertise to help you gain a deeper understanding of literature from around the world and develop analytical skills that are valuable to employers. You’ll study well-known writers and will also be exposed to writers that you won’t have heard of before. The course allows you to pursue different themes as you develop your confidence in textual analysis.