The term ‘world literature’ is used to refer to the entire world’s national literature and the distribution of works in the broader world outside their country of origin. Previously, these were primarily masterpieces of Western European authors. However, today it is increasingly viewed in an international context because now readers have access to a wide range of world works in various translations. These works of art are being studied in different universities all over the globe; nevertheless, the syllabuses differ. This article will compare the world literature programs of my university, Harvard and Marymount University.
Primarily, The Epic of Gilgamesh is included in every curriculum since it provides the students with an understanding of the most notable and the earliest literature masterpieces. My university and Harvard review The Thousand and One Nights as an essential work of art revealing the Arabic culture (Damrosch & Puchner, n. d.). Shakuntala, The Red Lotus of Chastity, and Song of Roland are widely studied within the syllabus of my world literature classes, while they are not included in other universities’ programs. Meanwhile, Harvard and Marymount University suggest dwelling on Turkish, Latin American, and Chinese culture through the most prominent literary works.
To my mind, Homer’s The Odyssey is excluded; however, it is one of the most influential readings of all time. In addition, Iliad seems to be missing; if it were included in the programs, our students would have a deeper understanding of ancient Greeks and their life. Moreover, I found it strange that we do not study the philosophical literature, which roots deep in ancient China. It would be interesting to learn more about Confucius and his ideas. In general, our course is mainly concerned with Indian and Arabic literature.
Reference
Damrosch, D., & Puchner, M. (n. d.). Course Syllabus.Harvard University. Web.