General provisions

The course is given as an independent course. The course can be counted to the minor field Aramaic/Syriac in a Bachelor’s degree.

Entry requirements

General entry requirements and English 6 or English B

Learning outcomes

On completion of the course, the student should be able to:

With respect to module 1, Basic course in Syriac

• account for general phonology, morphology, syntax and semantics and basic grammatical terminology,
• account for the location of Syriac among the Semitic languages and for the difference between modern Aramaic dialect and classical Syriac,
• describe the fundamental features of the orthography (notation) of classical Syriac, phonology (sound structure) and elementary morphosyntax (form and syntax) using basic linguistic terminology,
• use a reversible transliteration system for the Syriac script,
• read elementary texts in vocalised Syriac with intelligible pronunciation,
• translate textbook texts from Syriac to Swedish without a dictionary,
• analyse clauses and word forms in some given elementary texts on Syriac.

With respect to module 2, Classical Syriac I:

• account for the fundamental features of word formation, morphology and elementary syntax in classical Syriac using basic linguistic terminology,
• translate textbook texts from Syriac to Swedish without a dictionary,
• read elemenary classical Syriac texts out loud.

With respect to module 3, Classical Syriac II:

• account for the word formation, morphology and basic syntax of classical Syriac using linguistic terminology,
• translate textbook texts from Syriac to Swedish without a dictionary,
• at the reading of textbook texts apply elementary classical Syriac morphosyntax (form and syntax).

With respect to module 4: see Aramaic/Syriac history (5SY121)

Content

The course intends to give an introduction to the grammar of classical Syriac and give an orientation to the cultures in the Near East. The course consists of four modules: Basic course in Syriac (7.5 credits), Classical Syriac I (7.5 credits), Classical Syriac II (7.5 credits) and Aramaic/Syriac history (7.5 credits).

Instruction

The instruction consists of lectures, exercises and assessment. The student's own learning activities are crucial for completion of the course.

Assessment

The course is assessed through oral and/or written assignments and/or a final exam. The teacher can as part of the examination require compulsory attendance They can take place at a scheduled time and location (for instance within the framework of regular teaching), or be such that the student carry out alone. The course requirements are announced in writing at the start of the course by the convenor of the course. For the grade Pass with distinction, Pass with distinction in at least three of the included modules is required.

Other directives

The course may not be included in a degree if equivalent parts have been studied within another course included in the degree.