University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 10

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: 1.00 pm - 2.00 pm Tue and Thu

This module offers in-depth insight into the key stages of the development of the Ancient Greek Language. Beginning with its earliest stages, the epic language of Homer and the famous Nestor Cup, we will acquaint ourselves, at a basic level, with Mycenean (Linear B) Greek and Greek's relationship with Indo-European. Through an exploration of the main Greek dialects and alphabets preserved in both literary and inscriptional evidence, we will trace the process leading to the establishment of Attic as standard Greek, paying attention to linguistic-historical as well as social-cultural factors. We will then study the development of Hellenistic koine Greek and the influence of other cultures and languages on Greek, a fundamental part of this process, focussing, again, on inscriptions along with literature, which culminates in Greek classicism in Augustan Rome. The module concludes with an introduction to biblical Greek, at the threshold of pagan and Christian antiquity.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 2 hours of lectures and seminars

Scheduled learning hours: 20

Guided independent study hours: 280

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 2-hour Written Examination = 40%, Unseen test = 15%, Coursework = 45%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 40%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 60%

Re-assessment: 3-hour Written Examination = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr N Wiater
Module teaching staff: Dr N Wiater
Module coordinator email nw23@st-andrews.ac.uk