Sanskrit at SOAS Language Centre
तस्मै धत्तं सुवीर्यं गवां पोषं स्वश्व्यम् ॥
Bestow the Rays of Knowledge which lead to heroic strength, excellent life-energies and nourishment (Rgveda 1.93.2).
Sanskrit (संस्कृत) belongs to the Indo-Aryan branch of the Indo-European family of languages. It is the ancestor of modern Indian languages like Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Bengali and Panjabi. It is also related to languages such as French, Italian, German, Russian and English.
Since its discovery by Western scholars in the 18th century, the interrelationships of the various Indo-European languages have been a constant source of fascination to linguists. Indeed, the discovery of the genetic relatedness of Sanskrit to Latin and Greek gave rise to the science of philology and comparative linguistics.
Sanskrit literature is ancient, dating back to the Vedic period (around 1500 BC) and copious, incorporating epic, court and lyrical poetry, prose, drama, philosophy, mathematics, science and religion. Sanskrit continues to be spoken and written and is one of the twenty three official languages of India.
Language courses available:
- Certificate in Sanskrit - Revised information to follow
- Sanskrit Beginners
- Sanskrit Lower Intermediate
- Sanskrit Upper Intermediate
- Introduction to Sanskrit Online Course -Not available in Autumn 2012
Literature courses available:
Why Study Sanskrit at SOAS: Learners' Voices
Are you interested in degree course options in Sanskrit language and literature? Our colleagues in the South Asia Department will be happy to talk to you.
