Introduction: Re-Considering Comparative Literary Studies

Comparative literary studies

In an increasingly globalised and globalising world, „culture‟ appears as „an important determinant of subjectivity‟ and, consequently, of creative expression (Beautell 2000). With this in mind, Tötösy de Zepetnek (1999) prompted researchers to merge the comparative study of literature with that of cultural studies, embracing what he designated the new „comparative cultural studies‟ approach. I...

Introduction: Rethinking the Disciplinary Confluence of Anthropology and Literary Studies

Special Issue Introduction “Transcultural Literary Studies: Politics, Theory, and Literary Analysis”

As we witness the rise of intemperate nationalism, self-indulgent nativism, and aggressive xenophobia in many countries, multiand intercultural studies and initiatives have come under considerable pressure. At least for now, it seems that they have not been able to offer satisfactory alternatives for populations that suffer under the ill effects of globalization or believe so. Theories of trans...

Comparative Literary History

Consciousness and Literary Studies

At this present juncture in the history of literature, many critics fear the literary word has been devalued by the twin forces of electronic technology and critical theory. Even so, the field of literature is not without resources to revivify itself as the emergence of new holistic approaches to literature testify. The interdisciplinary influence of the sciences, for instance, opens a window f...