Since knowing the language is essential to understanding a given literature and culture, all majors study a second language and literature at an advanced level.

At the same time, the study of works in translation, especially those originally written in non-European languages, provokes cross-cultural comparisons and helps prepare students for a multilingual, pluralistic, and global world.

Comparison of literature to other kinds of arts, media, and writing further extends understanding of literature and culture. Two programs of study are offered: the Major in Comparative Literature and the Major in Comparative Arts.