René Wellek Prizes (ACLA)

About this program

The American Comparative Literature Association (ACLA) awards the René Wellek Prizes for outstanding books in comparative literature that cross national, linguistic, geographic, or disciplinary borders; in 2027 two prizes will be given—one for a single- or co-authored monograph and one for an edited essay collection. Eligible books must have been published in 2025 or 2026; first books are eligible but a title may not be nominated for both the Wellek and the Harry Levin (first book) Prize nor re-nominated if previously submitted. Authors or publishers must submit nominations (including a PDF of the book) through the ACLA website by August 31, 2026—email submissions are not accepted—and presses may nominate up to three titles per prize. Prize winners receive complimentary Annual Meeting registration, roundtrip airfare up to $550, and up to two nights' hotel accommodation when attending in person.