Redefining the Subject Matter and Methodology of Comparative Literature in an Age of Globalization

Abstract

The paper explores ways of redefining the subject matter and methodology of comparative literature in harmony with the tremendous cultural and ideological changes in the age of globalization. In this age of globalization, I would argue, comparative literature maintains a unique place from which effective means of human reconciliation, co-existence, and cross-cultural mutual understanding, may be offered. This is mainly a byproduct of the cultural turn which characterizes comparative literature in an age of globalization. In these terms comparative literature may be geared towards highlighting cross- cultural human commonalities, and yet recognizing different peoples' diversities and unique mores and values which could be viewed as distinct components of a universal civilization as it is reflected in world literature – the raw material of comparative literature. Through the study of world literature as a cultural phenomenon in its national perspectives and its international contexts (a practice which lies at the heart of the comparatist inquiry) the reader will be able to grasp the experiences of man in all their diversity and their common human values and cultural codes. This undertaking is bound to draw the world closer together in an age of endless ideological, cultural, civilizational, and political conflicts .The widening of the scope and the expanding of the territories of comparative literature to accommodate the newly defined mission of the discipline may pave the way to produce a concept of global citizenship based on broad human affiliations and common core human values in the new millennium which is marked with the evolving spirit of globalized consciousness. This supports a long-held conviction by proponents of comparative literature that the practice of the discipline contributes to enhancing intellectual liberalism which brings with it an attitude of sympathy and understanding among human beings across national, cultural, and civilizational boundaries..