BA Comparative Literatures and Cultures (Q200)

In years one and two, core units introduce you to the practices and debates of comparative literature and the study of visual cultures (e.g. photography, street art and film). These units also show how insights and methods drawn from postcolonialism and decolonization, translation studies, multiculturalism, and multilingualism, can throw new light on the comparative study of literatures and cultures.

All year three students do an independent research project. You will produce an extended essay on a comparative topic of your choice and supplement it with a knowledge-dissemination project that allows you to think creatively about how to communicate your research to non-specialists. You might, for example, create a radio programme pitch or an exhibition catalogue.

In all years, you will choose optional units based on the culture of a single language or a combination of cultures, or from other departments in arts (such as classics, art history, English or theology). While language study is not required for our single honours degree, both European and non-European language units may be on offer as optional units. Summer study abroad schemes may also be available. For information, visit the Centre for Study Abroad.

The cutting-edge research interests and methods of our dedicated and dynamic staff inform our teaching, which takes place through lectures, seminars, workshops, and one-to-one project supervision. Single honours students also benefit from small-group tutorials. Assessments combine rigour and creativity and may include presentations, essays, exams, collaborative projects, debates and video essays.