Modern & Classical Languages, Literatures & Cultures

MCLLC advances the understanding and appreciation of language and cultural study domestically and abroad. The department teaches undergraduate and graduate students, pursues research advancing knowledge in language and an array of cultural products (art, film, folklore, literature, music, mythology, religion, theatre), and provides service to the Commonwealth in language instruction and cultural awareness.

MCLLC Statement on Diversity and Inclusion

The faculty and staff of the Department of Modern and Classical Languages, Literatures and Cultures are committed to creating an environment of mutual respect where our students are encouraged to achieve their highest potential. We work together as a diverse group of engaged students, faculty, and staff to ensure we all feel welcome, safe, accepted, and included. We recognize that some students face serious challenges to their education because of their race, ethnicity, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, national origin, first language, religious and spiritual tradition, age, ability, and socioeconomic status, etc. We try to provide strong academic support for any students who need it and to connect our courses to their varied experiences. Our members are involved in formal and informal training programs that promote discussions and activities about diversity and inclusivity, including training in explicit (conscious) and implicit (unconscious) bias and training in how to create a structurally inclusive learning environment. We offer courses dedicated to the languages and cultures of Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas, many cross-listed with Gender and Women Studies, Africana and African American Studies, and Jewish Studies, that promote discussions and activities around issues of diversity and inclusivity. The department is also committed to fostering a community that supports a diversity of opinion insofar as such opinion is expressed in accordance with our fundamental mission of academic inquiry and in a manner that treats all members of the intellectual community with dignity and respect. We offer many opportunities for our students to explore international perspectives across our curriculum, thus empowering and strengthening the cultural awareness and competence of our students.