Comparative Literature explores an 'area of interest' rather than a special discipline. The criticial discussion of comparative studies provided in this book demonstrates the greater depth and vivacity that these studies can give to our ideas about literature.

Henry Gifford was Winterstoke Professor at the University of Bristol

Foreword; 1: The Education of a Modern Poet; 2: National Accent and Tradition; 3: The Mind of Europe; 4: Notes on Translation; 5: Comparative Studies at the University; 6: American Literature - The Special Case; Bibliography; Appendix