Old English 1: Introduction to Old English Language and Literature

Catalog description

In this class, students learn to read prose and poetry written in the earliest recorded form of English, which we call Old English (~450-1100) in its original language. Genres on the syllabus include riddles, history, magical spells, chronicles, and travel stories. To prepare for class, students will make translations. We'll check these as a group as we discuss the text's literary qualities and cultural/historical contexts - and how these are intertwined with the details of the Old English language.