German and English Literature

German and English are two of the great literary languages of Europe, each carrying a tradition that has shaped how writers across the world understand the possibilities of fiction, poetry and drama. English literature is a global tradition rooted in but far exceeding its island origins, while German-language culture has produced some of the most profound literary, philosophical and intellectual contributions of the modern era. Studying both together develops an unusual comparative sensibility, allowing you to read across linguistic and cultural boundaries and to understand how different literary traditions have influenced and challenged one another.

This four-year full-time degree at the University of Edinburgh combines advanced language study in German with deep engagement with literature in both languages. German is today the most widely spoken first language in Europe and the third most popular foreign language taught worldwide, making it both culturally significant and professionally useful. You will develop your command of German to a high level, including its literary registers, while studying literature from both the English-speaking and German-speaking worlds across historical periods and generic forms.

You will develop skills in close reading, literary argument, comparative analysis and the production of extended scholarly writing in both languages.

Graduates combine advanced bilingual competence with strong analytical and communication skills, making them competitive for careers in translation, interpreting, international business, diplomacy, journalism, publishing, arts administration, education and the civil service. The combination of German language proficiency and literary training is particularly valuable in European and international contexts. Many graduates go on to postgraduate study in German studies, comparative literature, translation studies or English literature, and some pursue careers in academia or professional translation.