In this course we examine the history of the Scots language from its origins to the late modern period. We include such topics as the sources of Scots vocabulary, the sounds, spelling and grammar of Scots, and discuss changing functions of Scots in literary and non-literary contexts, as well as attitudes to Scots in view of its relationship with English. The course will make use of various manuscript, printed and online resources and include a visit to GUL Special Collections.

1 x 2hr session per week (comprising 1x1hr lecture; 1x 1hr seminar) over 10 weeks as scheduled on MyCampus.

This is one of the Honours options in English Language and may not run every year. The options that are running this session are available on MyCampus.

ENGLANG4005 History of Scots

None

The standard assessments for this course are: 

■ Written assignment (essay, 3000 words) - 50% 

■ Set exercise: translation of an Older Scots text (c.300 words and a commentary c.1000 words) - 50% 

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

■ There are no alternatives to the assessments, but flexible deadlines can be offered as reasonable adjustment (Students should follow the usual process for extensions). 

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

This course will provide the opportunity to:

■ gain an understanding of the history and development of the Scots language from its origins to the late modern period;

■ examine a range of materials written in and about Scots from a range of historical periods;

■ reflect on the relationship between Scots and English, and on attitudes towards Scots, at various points in the language's history.

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

■ describe the key stages in the history and development of the Scots language from its origins to late modern times;

■ explain factors which have influenced the development of Scots and English in Scotland;

■ identify linguistic features associated with key historical periods of Scots;

■ analyse the use of Scots in literary and non-literary texts from medieval to late modern times;

■ use and evaluate existing resources for the historical study of Scots and English in Scotland.