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36th in the world for English Language and Literature

QS World University Rankings by subject 2024

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Comparative lit
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Comparative Literature

Comparative Literature at Leeds

Our comparative literature degree combines the study of English literature with different literatures from around the world.

You'll be introduced to a range of issues such as genre, narratology and reception, and will study themes such as myth, fable and different postcolonialisms, drawing on examples from a range of different cultures and periods.

From the School of Languages, Cultures and Societies you’ll study texts (from translations) taught by literature specialists in: Ancient Greek, Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Latin, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish.

From the School of English you can choose modules from the whole range of options, including writers from Africa, Asia, Australasia, Canada, and the Caribbean.

If you're interested in independent language learning, you'll have access to resources, workshops, language exchanges and language groups provided by the University's Language Zone.

Specialist facilities in the Brotherton Library include a wide variety of manuscript, archive and early printed material in its Special Collections.

The Centre for World Literatures promotes the study of literature from around the world.

Undergraduate degree

You can study comparative literature at Leeds as a joint honours degree with English.

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Enrichment opportunities

You’ll have plenty of opportunities to gain new skills and experiences, whether you want to join a student society, improve your employability, or spend time studying or working abroad.

Why study English and Comparative Literature?

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You'll benefit from learning in a research-intensive environment.

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Laura Manzi
Student | BA English and Comparative Literature
“I love reading long essays and about the historical and social context of a book. 'The Death of the Author' and 'The Second Sex' are probably the best theories I read. I enjoyed the opportunity to explore other subjects by taking discovery module.”