Globalizing Comparative Literature

Abstract

Travelling of ideas, trends, movements and people is a reality of the age of
globalization. With the publication of ‘Travelling Theory’ by Edward Said (1983),
the concept of travel or travelling theories has achieved immense importance and
recognition in various disciplines. This paper aims to explore the potential the
‘Travelling Theory’ offers in globalizing comparative literature. It investigates
whether the travelling theory holds promise for destabilizing Eurocentric Canon
and expanding the frontiers of comparative literature. It explores the mechanics
involved in fast dissemination of theories to suggest that comparative literature has
indeed become global. It also highlights the forces which delimit dissemination of
comparative literature written in regional languages at an international level. The
article suggests, as central to discussions in globalizing comparative literature, the
need to initiate polyvalent dialogue from various geographical, cultural, ideological,
racial and religious contexts, strengthening the commonalities and celebrating the
differences in an atmosphere of mutual indebtedness for a noble cause of peaceful
living.