The Future of Literary Studies in a Globalized World

Abstract

In the twenty-first century, literary studies are undergoing a profound transformation under the influence of globalization, technological innovations, and shifting cultural paradigms. Traditional approaches centered on national literatures and canonical hierarchies are increasingly giving way to global, interdisciplinary, and digital frameworks. This paper examines the emerging trajectories of literary studies in a globalized context, emphasizing world literature, interdisciplinary engagements, digital shifts, decolonial perspectives, and the reconfiguration of pedagogy. It argues that the future of literary studies lies in embracing diversity, fostering global citizenship, and rethinking what constitutes literature in an age of interconnection. By analyzing the intellectual, cultural, and technological forces shaping this evolution, the paper highlights how literary studies can remain relevant and impactful in addressing the ethical, ecological, and epistemological challenges of the modern world.