Comparative Literature

Advising

Comparative Literature Major
With the B.A. Degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences(Major Code: 15031)

Comparative Literature Major
In preparation for the Single Subject Teaching Credential in EnglishWith the B.A. Degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences

Comparative Literature Minor

Courses

Faculty

Faculty assigned to teach courses in comparative literature are drawn from departments in the College of Arts and Letters.

Offered by the Department of English and
Comparative Literature

Major in comparative literature with the B.A. degree in liberal arts and sciences.

Teaching major in comparative literature for single subject teaching credential in English.

Minor in comparative literature.

The Major

Comparative literature is the study of literature from around the world, transcending the restrictions of national and linguistic boundaries. Traditionally, comparative study has been based on literary movements, periods and lines of influence, as well as on genres, themes, myths, and legends. In recent years comparative literature has come to include the comparison of literature with other areas of human experience.

Comparative literature offers students the opportunity to study a broad range of literary subjects from various cultures throughout the world. Courses are offered in European literature from ancient to contemporary times; in the literature of Asia, Africa, and Latin America; in folk literature, legend, fantasy, and science fiction; in literary theory; and in special topics such as travel literature, literature and existentialism, Japanese literature and film, and rock poetry. All reading is done in English translation (majors choosing Plan II, however, are also required to take courses in foreign language literature).

Because the field covers so wide a range, the comparative literature student does not acquire a comprehensive knowledge of any basic list of "great works." Such a list, for all of world literature, would be far too long. Instead, students learn various approaches to literature, along with specialized knowledge of areas which particularly interest them.

Comparative literature is an excellent major for anyone desiring a broadening and enriching liberal arts education. Its application to foreign cultures is particularly useful for careers in foreign service and international trade. Translating, editing and publishing, journalism, broadcasting, and film are other possibilities, as well as advertising and public relations, politics, writing, library work, and criticism. Comparative literature is also, like English, an excellent foundation for careers in the professions, especially law.

The comparative literature major may also be used as preparation for the single subject (high school) teaching credential in English. Graduate study in comparative literature may lead to teaching at more advanced levels. The Plan II major has been specifically designed for students who plan to do graduate work in this area.

Advising

All College of Arts and Letters majors are urged to consult with their department adviser as soon as possible; they are required to meet with their department adviser within the first two semesters after declaration or change of major.

Comparative Literature Major

With the B.A. Degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences
(Major Code: 15031)

All candidates for a degree in liberal arts and sciences must complete the graduation requirements listed in the section of this catalog on "Graduation Requirements." No more than 48 units in comparative literature and English courses can apply to the degree.

A minor is not required with this major.

Preparation for the Major. Comparative Literature 210, 270A, 270B. (9 units)

Foreign Language Requirement. Plan I: Competency (equivalent to that which is normally attained through three consecutive courses of college study) is required in one foreign language as part of the preparation for the major. Refer to section of catalog on "Graduation Requirements."

Plan II: See below.

Upper Division Writing Requirement. Passing the University Writing Examination or English 508W, 581W, 584W or Rhetoric and Writing Studies 500W with a grade of C (2.0) or better.

Major. Plan I: General literature. For students who do not intend to enter a graduate program in comparative literature. This program is suitable as a teaching major for students pursuing the single subject teaching credential in English.

Required: A minimum of 33 upper division units to include 18 units in one of the three areas (A, B, and C) below; nine units in American literature, British literature, or creative writing; and an additional six units in comparative literature.

Plan II: For students who intend to enter a graduate program in comparative literature.

Required: A minimum of 33 upper division units to include 18 units in one of the three areas (A, B, and C) below; Comparative Literature 582; six units in a foreign language literature (read in the original language); and six units in another literature (which may be English or American) read in the original language. It is strongly recommended that even those students choosing English or American as their second literature attain competency in a second foreign language.

A. European Literature. Eighteen units selected from the following:

1. Comparative Literature 511, 512, 513, 514.

2. Up to six units in other, variable-content comparative literature courses with appropriate content approved by the departmental adviser.

3. Up to six units from Art 371, 557, 558, 559, 573A, 573B, 574, 575; Classics 310, 320, 330; History 407A, 407B, 440, 503A, 503B, 506, 507, 509, 510, 511A, 511B, 512A, 512B, 526, 528; Humanities 401, 402, 403, 404; Music 351A, 351B, 351C; Philosophy 412, 413, 414, 506, 508; Political Science 301A, 301B, 302; and Religious Studies 318.

B. Asian, African, and Latin American Literature. Eighteen units selected from the following:

1. Comparative Literature 440, 445, 455, 460, 530.

2. Up to six units in other, variable-content comparative literature courses with appropriate content approved by the departmental adviser.

3. Up to six units from Anthropology 442, 449; Art 562; Asian Studies 458, 459, 596 (with appropriate content approved by the departmental adviser); History 415A, 415B, 420, 421, 473A, 473B, 475A, 475B, 555, 556, 557, 558, 561, 565; Humanities 450, 460; Music 351E; and Religious Studies 340, 401, 403.

C. Comparative Literary Theory (Theory of literature, genre study, literature in relation to other arts and disciplines).
Eighteen units selected from the following:

1. Comparative Literature 561, 562, 563, 580, 582, 594, 595. Note: Students following Plan I must include Comparative Literature 582 under area C. For Plan II students, this course is required separately and will not be counted among the 18 units under area C.

2. Up to six units in other, variable-content comparative literature courses with appropriate content approved by the departmental adviser.

3. Up to six units from Drama 460A, 460B; English 493, 507 (strongly recommended), 570, 571, 573; Music 592; Philosophy 334, 541, 542; Religious Studies 360; and Women's Studies 352, 553.

Comparative Literature Major

In preparation for the Single Subject Teaching Credential in English
With the B.A. Degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences

(Major Code: 15031)

Preparation for the Major. Comparative Literature 210, 270A, 270B; Linguistics 101; Rhetoric and Writing Studies 100, 200; Drama 120 or Humanities 140; English 280 or 281; English 250A-250B or 260A-260B; Communication 200 or Journalism 220 or Drama 115. (36 units)

Foreign Language Requirement: Competency (equivalent to that which is normally attained through three consecutive courses of college study) is required in one foreign language as part of the preparation for the major. Refer to section of this catalog on "Graduation Requirements."

Upper Division Writing Requirement. English 508W or Rhetoric and Writing Studies 500W with a grade of C (2.0) or better.

Major. A minimum of 45 upper division units to include Comparative Literature 561 or 562 or 563; Comparative Literature 582; Drama 310 or 480; English 533; Linguistics 420 or 530; Rhetoric and Writing Studies 509. English 560A-560B (for those who took English 250A-250B) or six units selected from English 522, 523, 524, 525 (for those who took English 260A-260B).

Three units in ethnic literature selected from Africana Studies 460, 461, 462, 463, 464; American Indian Studies 430; English 519, 520; Mexican American Studies 335, 464.

Three units selected from Communication 360*, 371, 391, 407*, 408, 491*; Linguistics 410, 520, 524, 550*, 551.

Twelve units selected from Comparative Literature major, Plan II, Options A, B, or C; and three additional Comparative Literature elective units.

* Additional prerequisites required.

Comparative Literature Minor

The minor in comparative literature consists of a minimum of 15 units in comparative literature, 12 units of which must be in upper division courses. The 12 units of upper division work must be selected, with adviser's approval, from within one of the following interest areas:

European Literature: Comparative Literature 511, 512, 513, 514.

Asian, African, and Latin American Literature: Comparative Literature 440, 445, 455, 460, 530.

Comparative Literary Theory (Theory of literature, genre study, literature in relation to other arts and disciplines): Comparative Literature 561, 562, 563, 580, 582, 594, 595.

In addition the following variable content courses may be used in any of the above categories when they are appropriate: Comparative Literature 490, 571, 577, 596.

The comparative literature minor is not available to students majoring in English.

Courses in the minor may not be counted toward the major, but may be used to satisfy preparation for the major and general education requirements, if applicable. A minimum of six upper division units must be completed in residence at San Diego State University.

Courses

LOWER DIVISION COURSES

210. Introduction to Comparative Literature (3) Cr/NC

Introductory study of comparative literature, its current status, its historical development, range of comparative approaches. Generally includes guest presentations by various members of the comparative literature faculty

270A-270B. World Literature (3-3) I, II

Comparative study of selected major works from various continents and cultures, with emphasis on the way literature deals with enduring human problems and values. Semester I: prior to 1500; Semester II: since 1500. Comparative Literature 270A is not a prerequisite to 270B, and either may be taken separately.

296. Topics in Comparative Literature (3)

An introduction to the subject matter of comparative studies in literature. Focus on a specific movement, theme, figure, genre, etc. May be repeated with new title and content. See Class Schedule for specific content. Maximum credit six units.

UPPER DIVISION COURSES

(Intended for Undergraduates)

405. The Bible as Literature (3) I, II

Same course as English 405.

Prerequisite: Completion of the General Education requirement in Foundations II.C., Humanities.

Prose and poetry of the King James version.

440. African Literature (3)

Prerequisite: Completion of the General Education requirement in Foundations II.C., Humanities required for nonmajors.

Comparative study of African literature as well as Black literature of North and South America and the Caribbean; intercontinental influences and the theme of Black identity.

445. Modern Latin American Literature (3)

Prerequisite: Completion of the General Education requirement in Foundations II.C., Humanities required for nonmajors.

Reading selections from major Latin American authors.

455. Classical Asian Literature (3)

Prerequisites: Comparative Literature 270A or 270B or English 220; and completion of the General Education requirement in Foundations II.C., Humanities required for nonmajors.

Survey of one or more Asian literatures from the classical period of China, Japan, India, Korea, and others.

460. Modern Asian Literature (3)

Prerequisites: Comparative Literature 270A or 270B or English 220; and completion of the General Education requirement in Foundations II.C., Humanities required for nonmajors.

Survey of one or more Asian literatures from the modern period of China, Japan, India, Korea, the Philippines, Vietnam, and others.

470. Folk Literature (3)

Prerequisite: Completion of the General Education requirement in Foundations II.C., Humanities.

Studies in the ballad, bardic poetry, oral and popular literature and folklore.

490. Literary Movements (3)

A movement or theme in world literature-such as symbolism, existentialism, revolution, or romantic love. See Class Schedule for specific content.

499. Special Study (1-3) Cr/NC I, II

Prerequisites: Consent of instructor and approval of department chair.

Individual study. Maximum credit six units.

UPPER DIVISION COURSES

(Also Acceptable for Advanced Degrees)

Prerequisite for all 500-level courses: Six units in literature or three units in literature and three units in a related area appropriate to the course in question.

511. Continental Renaissance (3)

Representative selections from authors of the Renaissance period in continental Europe.

512. Seventeenth and Eighteenth Century European Literature (3)

Selected works by European writers prior to 1800.

513. Nineteenth Century European Literature (3)

Selected works by European writers between 1800 and 1900.

514. Modern European Literature (3)

Selected works by European writers of the twentieth century.

530. Topics in Asian Literature (3)

Specialized study of a selected topic in Asian literature. May be repeated with new content. See Class Schedule for specific content. Maximum credit six units.

561. Fiction (3)

A comparative approach to themes and forms in fiction (novel and short story). Focus of course to be set by instructor. May be repeated with new title and content. See Class Schedule for specific content. Maximum credit six units.

562. Drama (3)

Forms and themes in drama. Focus of course to be set by instructor. May be repeated with new title and content. See Class Schedule for specific content. Maximum credit six units.

563. Poetry (3)

A comparative approach to themes and forms in poetry. Focus of course to be set by instructor. May be repeated with new title and content. See Class Schedule for specific content. Maximum credit six units.

571. Literary Use of Legend (3)

Literary treatment of such legendary figures as Don Juan, Faust, and Ulysses, in a wide range of literature and genres. See Class Schedule for specific content.

577. Major Individual Authors (3)

In-depth study of the works of a major author, such as Dante, Murasaki, or Dostoyevsky. May be repeated with new title and content. See Class Schedule for specific content. Maximum credit six units.

580. Concepts in Comparative Studies (3)

Basic concepts in comparative studies in literature (e.g., influence, movement, figure, genre, etc.); their validity, usefulness, and limitations. May be repeated with new title and content. See Class Schedule for specific content. Maximum credit six units.

582. Contemporary Literary Theory (3)

Prerequisite: Six upper division units in literature.

Comparative study of literary theory since Russian formalism and Anglo-American "New Criticism." Emphasis on current developments in Europe and North America.

594. Topics in Literature and the Arts (3)

Prerequisite: Six upper division units in literature or any of the other arts.

Comparative study of literature and other arts such as painting, sculpture, architecture, music, dance, and film. May be repeated with new content. See Class Schedule for specific content. Maximum credit six units applicable to the M.F.A. degree in creative writing.

595. Literature and Aesthetics (3)

Prerequisite: Six upper division units in literature or any of the other arts.

Theoretical and experiential investigation of relationships between literature and the other arts; literary works in context of an inquiry into aesthetics.

596. Topics in Comparative Literature (3)

An intensive study of a topic to be selected by the instructor. May be repeated with new title and content. See Class Schedule for specific content. Maximum credit six units.

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