General provisions

The course is included in the Master's Programme in English.

Entry requirements

120 credits. 90 credits in a language subject.

Learning outcomes

Upon completing the module, the student should be able to:

• describe important linguistic features that characterize Germanic languages compared with other Indo-European languages
• describe important linguistic features that characterize Old English compared with other Germanic languages
• describe important features of Old and Middle English phonology, lexis, orthography, morphology, and syntax
• discuss features of Old and Middle English in fluent and correct English in speech and writing
• apply his/her knowledge of changes in Old and Middle English phonology to the pronunciation of individual words
• compare different descriptions of Old and Middle English in secondary sources
• analyse Old and Middle English text phonologically, morphologically, and syntactically
• categorize lexical innovation in Middle English etymologically with the aid of dictionaries
• translate Old and Middle English texts into Present-day English with the aid of word lists and course literature
• construct short stretches of Old and Middle English text according to morphological and syntactic specifications.

Content

The course introduces students to the prehistory, origins, and early development of the English language, and charts the development of English up to AD c1500. The course focusses on the linguistic characteristics of Early English, with special reference to phonology, vocabulary and orthography, morphology, and syntax. Special attention is paid to Old English prose.

Instruction

Group sessions. Instruction, class discussions, and examinations are in English. All teaching materials are in English.

Assessment

Students are examined in the form of oral presentations, written assignments, and a final written exam. Grades are fail, pass, or pass with distinction.

Students who fail a regular examination will be offered a make-up examination within a reasonable period of time after the regular examination.

Students who fail an examination twice have the right to apply to the head of the department for permission to change examiners.

Other directives

If the curriculum or the course literature for a course is changed, students have the right to be examined on the original curriculum and course literature on three occasions during the following three terms. After these three opportunities, the right normally expires.

Transitional provisions

Please contact the student counsellor for transitional regulations in connection with changes in the curriculum.