Comparative Literary & Cultural Studies

The Comparative Literary and Cultural Studies (CLCS) major at Franklin offers an exciting interdisciplinary look at the complex, dynamic workings of culture across a number of settings and contexts. We seek to understand cultural phenomena and processes as they unfold under the pressure of historical, social and economic forces paying particular attention to the manner in which power intersects with race, gender, and class. 

Our approach is both theoretical and problem-based: we study for instance how collective memory is shaped in the wake of slavery or apartheid; we seek to understand the consequences of forced or voluntary mobility; we examine the cultural significance of cuisine; or we study the multiple ways in which law shapes cultural processes and culture in turn affects the making of laws. In studying these various interplays we use theory as a resource that helps us see cultural nuances and ask questions that further our understanding of contemporary challenges. Inherent in our approach to comparative literary and cultural studies then is an understanding of culture as an ever-evolving entity that demands continuous acts of interpretation, negotiation, and creativity.

The development of analytical, synthetic thinking and effective means of oral and written expression are central to our endeavors. To hone these capabilities we begin our studies by reading literary texts with an eye not only to their internal structure and significance but also to the way in which stories permeate our life and can be read as cultural narratives. To this end, we also take our own role as readers very seriously.. The CLCS major at Franklin is designed for intellectually curous students who feel enriched by multi-disciplinary perspectives and who are eager to apply the things they have learned in the classroom to the world beyond. In this spirit, we encourage students to incorporate the lessons they learn on academic travel in their studies and the last year in CLCS offers the opportunity to design and complete a capstone project that builds on what they have learned.

CORE REQUIREMENTS (38+ CREDITS)

The Social Responsibility requirement and one of the Intercultural Competencies requirements may be fulfilled through courses in the major.

MAJOR REQUIREMENTS (42 CREDITS)

Comparative Literary and Cultural Studies (CLCS) Department offers nine out of the thirteen courses required by the major including the capstone seminar.  All of the courses required in the major are topic-based and will explore literature and culture from multiple perspectives.  Three major elective courses are selected in consultation with the student’s major advisor (see description below). A minor in a second language is recommended but not required.  Students planning a major in CLCS should enroll in CLCS 100 or CLCS 110 prior to taking upper-division classes in the major.

Required for all majors (9 Credits)

 any upper level FRE, GER, or ITA course above the 302 level

Major Electives (30 Credits)

Choose six other courses (18 credits) offered in CLCS.  At least two courses must be at the 300-level.

Choose four additional courses (12 credits) at or above the 200-level of which at least one course must be at or above the 300-level.

Students must select courses with themes of specific interest and related to the student’s course of study in CLCS.  No more than two courses can be chosen from the same department. Specific course selections must first be approved by the student’s academic advisor and by the Department Head.  Documentation of approved course selections must be submitted to the Office of the Registrar.

For example:

Capstone Requirement (3  Credits)

GENERAL ELECTIVES (45+ CREDITS)

Complete courses from any academic discipline.

Note: All Bachelor of Arts Degrees require a total of 125 credits consisting of Core, Major, and General Elective courses and requirements.  Credits required in the Core and General Electives part of the degree plan may vary depending on Core course selections.