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Semester 5: INTRODUCTION TO COMPARATIVE LITERATURE
Definition and Scope, World, National, General Literature, French and American Schools, Influence and Imitation, Literature and other disciplines/arts, Comparative studies (Shelley, Bharathi, Hemingway, Vairamuthu)
INTRODUCTION TO COMPARATIVE LITERATURE
Definition and Scope
Comparative literature explores literature across cultural and linguistic boundaries. It examines similarities and differences in themes, genres, and literary forms. Scope includes the study of texts in translation, intertextuality, and influence between cultures.
World Literature
World literature represents a global perspective, emphasizing texts that transcend national boundaries. It highlights universal themes while recognizing cultural specificity. Scholars focus on cross-cultural exchanges and the role of translation in literature.
National Literature
National literature refers to the body of works produced within a specific nation, reflecting its culture, history, and identity. Comparative literature considers how national contexts shape literary expressions and how national works engage with global literature.
General Literature
General literature encompasses all forms of written works without regard to geographical or cultural boundaries. It includes fiction, poetry, drama, essays, and more, providing a foundation for comparative studies.
French and American Schools
French schools emphasize theoretical frameworks, focusing on structuralism and post-structuralism. American schools tend to be more interdisciplinary, drawing from psychology, sociology, and cultural studies, facilitating a diverse approach to comparative literature.
Influence and Imitation
Examines how literature influences other literary traditions, cultures, and art forms. It analyzes how authors draw on earlier works, create adaptations, and engage in dialogues across texts from different backgrounds.
Literature and Other Disciplines/Arts
Comparative literature interacts with disciplines such as history, philosophy, psychology, and visual arts. This interdisciplinary approach enriches literary analysis and understanding of cultural phenomena.
Comparative Studies
Focuses on comparative analysis of literary figures such as Shelley, Bharathi, Hemingway, and Vairamuthu. It explores their unique contributions and the intertextual relationships between their works, illustrating the dynamics of influence and thematic parallels.
