Course Catalogue

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This course offers a survey of Gaelic literature from its beginnings to c. AD 1200 and of the chief critical issues currently and historically associated with this corpus.  Emphasis will be placed on the analysis of a wide range of texts which are representative of the rich textual culture of medieval Gaeldom, including tales from the Ulster Cycle, including Táin Bó Cúailnge, the so-called historical and mythological tales, voyage tales, poetry and religious literature. Questions of the purpose, context and meaning of many of the texts will be addressed.

10 one-hour lectures (average of one per week)

6 one-hour seminars (average one per fortnight, including an introductory seminar)

4 one-hour tutorials (at beginning of course; two to support preparation of essay; and one for feedback)

Standard entry to Masters at College level.

'Early Gaelic Literature in Translation' honours course.

The standard assessments for this course are:

■ Essay (3,500 words) - 60%

■ Seminar paper of 15 minutes on a topic selected by student in discussion with tutor - 30%

■ Seminar contribution (engagement with discussion and in setting agenda for next seminar) - 10%

If required, for instance where a disability prevents a student from undertaking a specific method of assessment, the following alternatives are available:

■ There is no alternative to the essay, but flexible deadlines can be offered as reasonable adjustments (students should follow the usual process for extensions)

■ Recorded Presentation OR written script of equivalent length OR Power point with substantial notes as an alternative to the presentation

■ Written responses to seminar material in advance or after seminar or seminar plan as alternative to oral contribution.

Further reasonable adjustments may be provided where necessary. Students are encouraged to consult with the course convenor.

This course aims to:

■ Provide a detailed overview of medieval Gaelic textual culture, the challenges of interpretation which it poses and the evolution of the criticism of this literature

■ Cultivate key, and transferrable, literary critical skills

■ Develop a critical understanding of the significance of medieval Gaelic literature within interdisciplinary study of medieval Gaelic history and culture

■ Foster deep learning, including through autonomous research, which will be communicated via seminar presentation and essay 

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

■ Exploit profitably the emerging digital resources for the study of Early Gaelic literature

■ Evidence, through participation in seminars, detailed knowledge of a wide range of primary texts and critical issues

■ Communicate in-depth understanding of medieval Gaelic textual culture, based on a critical engagement with both primary texts and scholarly debates, by means of a seminar presentation

■ Conduct independent research and articulate an argument in a sustained piece of writing