An introduction

The Department of Scottish Literature was established in 1971, a unique initiative which followed Glasgow University's recognition that the subject demanded specific focus and investment. While other universities include Scottish literature as a component of the English literature curricula, we remain the only autonomous Department of Scottish Literature in the world.

The Department was founded with the distinguished poet, critic and dramatist Alexander Scott as first Head of Department. In 1995, further demonstrating its support for the development of the Department, the University appointed Douglas Gifford to the first ever Chair in Scottish Literature. Dr Gerard Carruthers is presently Head of the Department, which now comprises six full-time members whose expertise covers the whole range of the subject. We work closely together in teaching and research into Scottish Literature  and related disciplines.