ENG4165 - Old English: Language and History
Course description
Course content
Discover the force of an old Germanic language! This course takes you to the period from the Viking incursions c. year 800 to the Norman conquest of Britain in 1066. You will learn the basics of English as it was then – a very different language from what it is now. We will study the morphological and syntactic structure of the language, and you will learn to read, translate and pronounce a variety of texts. Language does not exist independently of people and events, and the relation between language and history was especially close in this period. Hence, the course also includes a historical part (20%), in which we focus on the consequences of historical events on the status and development of the English language.
This is a course that requires systematic and diligent study throughout the term, but it gives you access to a very interesting linguistic and historical period. Through studying an older stage of the language, you will also be able to view modern English in a new light.
Learning outcome
After completing this course, you:
- can account for the morphological and syntactic structure of Old English
- can account for the pronunciation of Old English and pronounce it yourself
- can translate simple texts
- can identify the key historical figures and events in the Old English period, and explain their impact
Admission
Students who are admitted to study programmes at UiO must each semester register which courses and exams they wish to sign up for in Studentweb.
If you are not already enrolled as a student at UiO, please see our information about admission requirements and procedures.
Overlapping courses
- 5 credits overlap with ENG2154 - Old English, Introduction (discontinued)
- 5 credits overlap with ENG4154 - Old English, Introduction (discontinued)
- 10 credits overlap with ENG2165 - Old English: Language and History
Teaching
One hour lecture and two hour group sessions per week for thirteen weeks, 39 hours in all. Attendance is obligatory 10 out of 13 seminars, and 10 out of 13 lectures. Absences beyond this must be justified by documentation given to the exam coordinator.
Active participation is expected. Within a specified date, students are asked to submit two obligatory assignments. In addition, students will be asked to complete a number of smaller assignments throughout the term.
Examination
There will be a 4-hour written exam at the end of the term. The language part counts 80% towards the final grade, and the history part counts 20%.
Use of sources and citation
You should familiarize yourself with the rules that apply to the use of sources and citations. If you violate the rules, you may be suspected of cheating/attempted cheating.
Examination support material
Language of examination
The examination text is given in English, and you submit your response in English.
Grading scale
Grades are awarded on a scale from A to F, where A is the best grade and F is a fail. Read more about the grading system.
Explanations and appeals
Resit an examination
Special examination arrangements
Application form, deadline and requirements for special examination arrangements.