Khotanese
- Course Code:
- 155901004
- Status:
- Course Not Running 2013/2014
- Unit value:
- 1
- Taught in:
- Full Year
An introduction to Khotanese, the Middle Iranian language of the ancient city of Khotan (modern Yutien) in Chinese Turkestan, and its extensive Buddhist literature.
Prerequisites
There are no formal preconditions for entry, but since Khotanese is a language with a complex morphological system, some prior knowledge of a highly inflected language such as Latin, German or Russian is a great advantage. No knowledge of any specific language other than English is required, though a general familiarity with standard grammatical terminology and concepts (e.g. preposition, subject, accusative case, perfect tense) is essential. Intending students who are not confident of their grounding in this area are advised to attend the week of classes on "Language about language" at the beginning of the session.
Objectives and learning outcomes of the course
At the end of this course the student should be able to read straightforward Old Khotanese text with the aid of a glossary.
Workload
The course normally entails two hours of classes per week. Between classes, students are expected to devote some time to the study of Khotanese grammar, including the completion of exercises, and to prepare the texts to be read in class.Scope and syllabus
The first part of the course covers the principal features of Old Khotanese orthography, phonology, morphology and syntax in a systematic way. Subsequently, selected passages from the Book of Zambasta are read (in transcription) as samples of Khotanese poetry. Some attention is paid to their literary qualities as well as to their linguistic features. By the end of the course the student should be in a position to read and understand a straightforward Old Khotanese text with the aid of a glossary.
Method of assessment
One three-hour written examination in May-June (80% of the total mark); assessed course-work (20%).Suggested reading
Basic bibliography:
- H. W. Bailey, Dictionary of Khotan Saka, Cambridge 1979.
- R. E. Emmerick, Saka Grammatical Studies, London 1968.
- R. E. Emmerick, Introduction to Khotanese (unpublished, provided in photocopied form).
- R. E. Emmerick, The Book of Zambasta, London 1968.
