32601 - Germanic Philology 2 (2nd cycle)

Learning outcomes

The student possesses in-depth knowledge of the history of ancient Germanic literature, which he/she knows through direct reading of the sources, is able to analyse a literary text using a solid linguistic and philological methodology, possesses a high level of understanding and critical analysis of ancient Germanic cultural specificities, is able to elaborate complex analyses and formulate autonomous reflections on specific research topics.

Course contents

Translating from Old English

In this course we will deal with the Old English language with the aim of translating it into Italian. To this end, the first lessons of the course will be dedicated to the basic elements of Old English grammar, which, as you will see, does not differ much from modern English grammar. Short texts will be offered for translation from the outset. The aim of the course is to enable students to approach a medieval text in a straightforward manner and to be able to translate from Old English without major difficulties.

Readings/Bibliography

- Texts provided by the teacher and uploaded on the course web pages.

- Mark Atherton, Complete Old English (Anglo-Saxon), Abingdon, Bookpoint, 2010 [Teach yourself series].

- Baker, Peter S., Introduction to Old English, Oxford, Blackwell, 2003, pp. 152-159.



Non-attending students should contact the teacher to define the examination bibliography.

Teaching methods

The course will have a strong seminar orientation. Right from the start we will translate from Old English by dividing the class into small working groups. The teacher will accompany and direct the translation work. It is advisable, if possible, to come to the classroom with a PC / tablet / mobile phone etc. with internet connection.

Due to the strongly seminar character of the course, attendance is strongly recommended.

Assessment methods

The examination will consist of a written proof in which a short translation of an Old English text will be proposed.

The assessment will be structured with these grade bands:

- very good: 30L - 29

- good: 28 - 26

- fair: 25 - 23

- sufficient: 22 - 18

- insufficient: grades below 18

Teaching tools

Multimedial devices

Office hours

See the website of Alessandro Zironi