CIP Code

Comparative Literature

The concentration in Comparative Literature enables students to study an illustrative range of literary topics and to develop a focused critical understanding of how cultures differ from one another and what those differences mean.

Our courses provide opportunities to engage with literary works across linguistic and cultural boundaries, exploring the traditions and innovations of the literatures of the world.

In the spirit of Brown’s Open Curriculum, a concentration in Comparative Literature affords great academic freedom. Advanced literature courses from any literature department at Brown count for concentration credit. Any language — ancient or modern — supported at Brown may form part of a Comparative Literature concentration program. All students take a course in literary theory and have the opportunity to complete a senior essay.