Old English Literature: Introduction to Old English Language and Literature
ENGLISH LITERATURE 3061
Some of Europe's earliest and best vernacular literature is written in Old English, a language so different from the English of today that even the best modern translations cannot capture the character and power of original works. Because of its relation to modern English, however, enough of the language can be learned within weeks to begin reading Old English texts. In this course students will master the elements of Old English language, and learn enough to read and enjoy some of the greatest poetry in Old English, including Beowulf, and the culture that produced it. We shall compare the originals with modern translations by great poets such as Heaney and Pound. We shall also look forward to changes in the English language after the Norman conquest. Limited enrollment. Students should be ready for intensive language work in the first few weeks of the course. Satisfies the Medieval requirement.
Course Attributes: EN H; BU Hum; AS HUM; FA HUM; AR HUM; EL MED
