The aim of this seminar is to acquaint students with the culture of Ireland and look closely at its language and literature. All these three aspects of Irish life are intertwined and will be dealt with in an interrelated manner. There will first be a focus on the historical background to Ireland, mentioning the peoples on the island, the languages they spoke and the cultural artefacts which they have left behind. The relationship to England looms large in the history of Ireland and will be centre-stage. The present-day linguistic situation will be outlined and current developments in language in Ireland will be examined.
The cultural framework for Irish studies will also be look at closely and be continuously referred to throughout the seminar. The application of this knowledge to possible school projects and classroom teaching will form an important focus, for instance the use of literature, drama, poetry or film to communicate Irish culture to German students.
Appropriate literature for the different aspects of this seminar will be provided to the students at the beginning of the seminar. See also the material on the websites mentioned below.
There will be an excursion to Ireland for a week in mid-term. Any students wishing to participate should contact one of the organisers of the course as soon as possible so that we can settle the travel arrangements well in advance.
There are three websites with information on language in Ireland which student should consult. The first contains general information, the second is dedicated to the English language in Ireland while the third deals with the Irish language.
http://www.uni-due.de/LI/
http://www.uni-due.de/IERC/
http://www.uni-due.de/DI/ |
