Finest in comparative literature (5)

I believe the answer is:

elite

'finest' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

'in comparative literature' is the wordplay.
'in' indicates the answer is hidden within the clue.
'ELITE' can be found hidden inside 'comparative literature'.

(Other definitions for elite that I've seen before include "Superior group in society" , "Creme de la creme" , "High society" , "Letter size; superior group" , "A privileged or select group" .)

I've seen this clue in The Sun, The Times and The Telegraph.

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