For over half a century, the Department of Comparative Literature at Yale University has stood as a globally recognized leader in the field. Renowned for its comparative approach to literary history and analysis, Yale Comparative Literature has been instrumental in shaping literary theory and its application.
From its inception, the department carved out a unique space for in-depth, cross-cultural exploration of language and literature. This program emphasizes philological and theoretical engagement, fostering a broad intellectual and geographical scope. This commitment is reflected both in its comprehensive graduate curriculum and its acclaimed undergraduate course of study, known as “The Literature Major.”
Located centrally within Yale’s prestigious campus, the Department of Comparative Literature serves as a vibrant hub for multidisciplinary scholarship. Our faculty and students engage in research across more than twenty languages, forging connections with numerous departments, institutes, and working groups both within Yale and across the global academic community.
Our Dedication to Diversity and Inclusion
At Yale Comparative Literature, we firmly believe that promoting diversity and inclusion is not merely an aspiration, but an essential component of intellectual inquiry and academic excellence. We are committed to fostering an environment where all individuals are respected for their unique attributes. Challenging bias and promoting equitable representation are core values of our department.
The Department of Comparative Literature actively strives to cultivate an inclusive, welcoming, and diverse environment for both learning and professional growth. A key priority is the recruitment and support of individuals from underrepresented groups. We recognize that diversity, encompassing a wide spectrum of identities including gender, nationality, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, age, disability status, socioeconomic background, and religion, is integral to all intellectual endeavors within the department.
We are dedicated to achieving and upholding the highest standards for an inclusive intellectual community. Empowering scholars from diverse backgrounds and supporting research that engages with diverse populations are fundamental to the quality and dynamism of our collective work at Yale Comparative Literature.
Commitment to a Safe and Respectful Environment: Statement on Sexual Misconduct
The Department of Comparative Literature at Yale University takes all concerns regarding sexual misconduct and discrimination with the utmost seriousness. We are committed to maintaining a community where every member feels secure and respected. To this end, we encourage any students, faculty, or staff member to bring any instances of sexual harassment or behavior that violates mutual respect to the attention of the department chair.
Yale Comparative Literature unequivocally opposes any misuse of power, whether explicit or implicit. We also strongly encourage reporting any such unacceptable behavior to the University’s Title IX Office and/or SHARE (Sexual Harassment and Assault Response & Education). Yale University provides numerous resources to address these critical issues:
- Sexual Misconduct Response at Yale – Comprehensive resources and reporting options for sexual misconduct.
- Office of the Provost-Title IX – Information and policies related to Title IX compliance at Yale.
- Office for Equal Opportunity Programs – Resources for ensuring equal opportunity and addressing discrimination at Yale.
Yale Comparative Literature is dedicated to fostering a thriving academic environment built on intellectual rigor, inclusivity, and mutual respect. We invite you to explore the opportunities within our department and join our vibrant community of scholars.
