Williams has a vibrant and exciting program in comparative literature, characterized by a range of course offerings and by an energetic and collegial group of faculty who cooperate across departments to support the program.
Comp Lit at Williams involves the study of literature from multiple cultural traditions in order to appreciate the variety, the complexity, and the breadth of what literature can be and do. Our courses are geared to students who are interested in literature and culture and who want exposure to a range of texts and cultures from both inside and outside the English-speaking world: from Imperial Russia to contemporary Latin America, from Victorian London to postmodern Tokyo. The critical approaches we use link us with a wide range of other disciplines, including art, anthropology, history, and psychology, to name a few. And the program emphasizes critical thinking and writing skills that serve students across departments and divisions.
*Comp lit will hold a info session on the Comp lit major and courses on Tuesday, May 2, 2023 at 5 in Hollander 241. Sophomores considering declaring a Comp lit major are strongly encouraged to attend! To declare the major, fill out the Comp lit Advising Form and meet with an advisor in Comp lit to discuss your plans for the major, and fill out the registrar’s major declaration form. The registrar’s office will remove your registration hold once you have submitted that form. Any questions, email Sarah Allen, chair of Comp lit.*
Fall 2023 courses are listed here.
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