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Semester 1

Introducing Sanskrit (DIVI08032)

Subject

Divinity

College

CAHSS

Credits

20

Normal Year Taken

1

Delivery Session Year

2023/2024

Pre-requisites

Course Summary

This course provides an introduction to Sanskrit, the language of classical Indian literature. It prepares students to read basic texts including from the scriptures of Hindu and Buddhist traditions.

Course Description

Academic Description This course introduces Sanskrit, the language of ancient India in which many great works of literature, including Hindu and Buddhist scriptures, were composed. The course is accessible to absolute beginners and assumes no prior knowledge of the language. Outline Content The course begins with an introduction to the Sanskrit alphabet, including the Devanagari script. This is followed by a systematic review of basic grammar, including: verb categories and common verbal forms for expressing past, present and future; the use of case, number and gender in nouns and adjectives; compounds; and common sentence structures. Study of grammar will be interweaved with guided reading of basic texts and the acquisition of vocabulary. By the end of the course students will be able to read short simple texts. Student Learning Experience Students attend class four times per week, to ensure ongoing development and consolidation of their learning. Students will be required to complete homework weekly, and to engage in the interactive classes, which will regularly include informal quizzes and activities to ensure new material has been understood. Assessment includes class tests, ensuring students can monitor their learning, and an end of course exam, where extracts from set texts will be provided for translation and explanation.

Assessment Information

Written Exam 100%, Coursework 0%, Practical Exam 0%

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