Classical Studies and Comparative Literature

Classical studies and comparative literature is a combination that reaches across the full sweep of human literary culture, from the ancient Greek and Roman worlds that have so profoundly shaped Western civilisation to the rich diversity of literary traditions in other languages and periods. Classical studies encompasses not just Greek and Roman literature but the social and cultural history of the classical world, its philosophy, religion and art, and the reception of classical culture in the modern world. Comparative literature extends the analytical frame to texts from different national and linguistic traditions, asking what they share and how they differ when read alongside each other across time and cultural boundaries.

At the University of St Andrews, this four-year MA (Hons) programme includes a year abroad, giving you the opportunity to engage with both disciplines in a different academic and cultural context. St Andrews has a strong classical studies tradition with research-active faculty whose work spans the full range of the ancient world. The comparative literature component draws on expertise across the School of Modern Languages and beyond.

You will study Greek and Roman literature in translation and potentially in the original languages, explore the social, cultural, and philosophical dimensions of the classical world, and engage with literary traditions across languages and periods, tracing the connections, receptions, and resonances between ancient and modern texts.

You will develop skills in close reading, classical and comparative literary analysis, historical and cultural contextualisation, and sustained written argument across a remarkable range of texts and traditions.

Graduates from classical studies and comparative literature programmes pursue careers in education, publishing, the cultural sector, journalism, the civil service, arts administration, international organisations, and academic research. Postgraduate study in classical studies, comparative literature, ancient history, or a related humanities discipline is a natural continuation for those seeking specialist or research roles.