Comparative literature
Explore a range of literatures from around the world translated into English and gain an exceptionally broad perspective on different literary genres, periods, themes and movements.
By studying comparative literature at St Andrews, you will gain insight into the importance of translation work and how to read across cultures. The literature studied is translated from Arabic, Persian, French, German, Italian, Russian and Spanish languages.
Undergraduate
Postgraduate taught
Postgraduate research
The School of Modern Languages offers PhD, MPhil, and MSt (Res) research programmes. Research interests in the School cover many aspects of language studies, including:
- literature
- linguistics
- cinema
- history
- gender
- identity issues.
To apply, you should first identify and contact a potential supervisor you would like to work with in your intended research area. Find out how to contact a research supervisor.
“With texts from a wide range of countries and a variety of genres (novels to movies to paintings), Comparative Literature is perfectly suited to an increasingly globalised and intermedial world. The focus on contemporary cultural discourses has proved to be very useful in my joint course with Modern History, as well as helping me secure internships in museums and research institutes.”
- Bad Fischau, Austria
Awards
First in Scotland and second in the UK for languages and linguistics
Guardian University Guide 2023
83% of research activity rated 3* or 4*
Most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021)
School of Modern Languages
The School offers a truly global approach with specialists across eight languages – Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Persian, Russian and Spanish – as well as Comparative Literature.
Expertise spans from the Middle Ages to the present day and includes prose, poetry, theatre, film, history, translation, and material culture.
The Department of Comparative Literature within the School has subject specialists who lead classes on a broad range of literary genres.
Studying in St Andrews
The University offers a variety of flexible entry options in order to allow all students, regardless of background or personal circumstances, to apply.
Scholarships and funding options are available at every level of study.
St Andrews has variety of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets.
Visit St Andrews
If you’re interested in studying at St Andrews, join us at a visiting day or talk and tour to explore the town, find out about our courses and meet current students. You can also join us for one of our upcoming online events.
