Margareta Petersson Libros

Literary History: Towards a Global Perspective is a research initiative funded by the Swedish Research Council, launched in 1999. Its goal is to develop effective methods for studying literature on a global scale, focusing on comparative and intercultural dimensions. Despite the abundance of information available today, obtaining a credible overview of world literary history remains challenging. Traditionally, literary cultures have been analyzed in isolation, leading to inconsistencies in principles and methods across different fields. This fragmentation complicates the understanding of both one's own literary traditions and those of others, posing a significant barrier for both laypersons and scholars. The project seeks to address this issue by fostering a comprehensive understanding of literature through empirical research and conceptual exploration. Contributions to the four volumes are authored by specialists from various disciplines, primarily in comparative literature, Oriental studies, and African studies, with texts discussed in their original languages. Each volume focuses on a specific research topic, aiming to enhance the understanding of global literary traditions and facilitate a more cohesive perspective on literary history.