Introduction to Comparative Literature

In this course, we will approach the work of comparison by examining a number of texts by authors from Africa and the Caribbean, all written in self-conscious relationship to earlier works from the European canon. In what ways—and to what ends—do authors rework, reimagine, and rewrite canonical literature? How are similar stories, characters, and narrative structures transformed by authors writing from different historical, cultural, and geographic locations? What dynamics of power are revealed when postcolonial perspectives are brought to bear upon European texts? We will address these questions and others as we hone our skills in comparative analysis. Please note: because electronic devices make interesting conversation difficult, students are asked to come to class with paper books. Texts to be considered include:

Shakespeare, The Tempest (Signet Classics)
Césaire, A Tempest (Theatre Communications Group/TGC Translations)
Defoe, Robinson Crusoe (Penguin Classics)
J. M. Coetzee, Foe (Penguin Books)
Brontë, Jane Eyre (Norton Critical Editions)
Jean Rhys, Wide Sargasso Sea (Norton)
Joseph Conrad, Heart of Darkness (Norton Critical Editions)