PG Classical Arabic B: Travel and Geography

This is an upper intermediate language acquistion module that complements Arabic 3 B, and/or Arabic 4 B, by familiarizing students with genres and styles of Arabic writing through reading authentic classical Arabic travel and geography

Objectives and learning outcomes of the module

On successful completion of this module a student will be able to:

1. acquire additional vocabulary;
2. reinforce grammar and syntax learned in Arabic 3 A, and/or Arabic 4 A;
3. be familiar with the content and style of classical Arabic biography and history;
4. distinguish between MSA and Classical Arabic;
5. recognize different genres of classical Arabic writing and identity their features.

Workload

3 hours per week (1 hour lecture plus 2 hours language class) for 10 weeks.

Scope and Syllabus

Course readings and discussions are guided by, but not exhaustive of, or exclusive to, the following major themes:

• Classical Arabic travel writing, including geographical exploration, pilgrimage, the journey in search of knowledge, and adventures at sea and in the desert.
• Classical Arabic accounts of cities, regions, holy sites and scholarly networks and assemblies.
• Technology of travel, cartography and geography.
• Arabic literary journey

Method of Assessment

• 25% - Commentary on a selected text (750 words)
• 25% - Commentary on a selected text (750 words)
• 50% - Annotated Translation (1500 words)
• Exact submission deadlines will be published on the module page on BLE/Moodle.

Disclaimer

Important notice regarding changes to programmes and modules