Old English 1: Introduction to Old English Language and Literature

In this class, students learn to read prose and poetry written in the earliest recorded form of English, which we call Old English (~450-1100) in its original language. Genres on the syllabus include riddles, history, magical spells, chronicles, and travel stories. To prepare for class, students will make translations. We'll check these as a group as we discuss the text's literary qualities and cultural/historical contexts - and how these are intertwined with the details of the Old English language.