American School of Comparative Literature

Introduction:

The American School of Comparative Literature refers to an intellectual movement or academic approach within the field of comparative literature, which seeks to study and analyze literary works across different languages, cultures, and time periods. While there isn't a singular institution called the "American School of Comparative Literature," the term could broadly refer to the evolution of comparative literature as an academic discipline in American universities, particularly in the 20th century. The American School of Comparative Literature emerged in the post-World War II era, challenging the then-dominant French School. It broadened the scope of comparative literature by emphasizing an interdisciplinary approach and moving beyond the study of influence to explore parallels and relationships between literature and other fields.

Origin and Growth:

• Post-WWII Context: The devastation of WWII led to a desire for international understanding and cooperation, influencing the American School's focus on universal themes and cross-cultural connections in literature.
• Influence of Émigré Scholars: Many European intellectuals, including prominent comparatists, fled to the US during the war, enriching American academia and contributing to the development of the American School.
• Expansion of Scope: Unlike the French School, which primarily focused on historical influences between national literatures, the American School embraced a wider range of comparisons, including:
• Literature and other arts (painting, music, film)
• Literature and other disciplines (philosophy, history, social sciences)
• Comparisons across different time periods and cultures

Key Aspects:

• Interdisciplinarity: The American School emphasizes the connections between literature and other fields of knowledge, fostering a broader understanding of culture and human expression.
• Parallel Studies: It explores similarities and differences between literary works and other forms of expression, even without direct influence, to uncover universal themes and patterns.
• Emphasis on the Text: While acknowledging historical and cultural contexts, the American School also focuses on the intrinsic qualities of the literary work itself.
• Openness to Diverse Literatures: It encourages the study of literatures beyond the traditional Western canon, promoting a more inclusive and global perspective.

Key Figures:

• Henry Remak: A leading figure who defined the American School and advocated for its interdisciplinary approach.
• René Wellek: A prominent scholar who contributed to the theoretical foundations of comparative literature.
• Harry Levin: A renowned comparatist who explored the connections between literature and other disciplines.

Legacy:

The American School has had a significant impact on the field of comparative literature, shaping its development and broadening its scope.

Its emphasis on interdisciplinarity and cross-cultural understanding continues to be relevant in today's globalized world.