Literary Cultures in South Asia (370-0-20)

Topic

Talking the Talk: Language in South Asian History

Instructors

David Boyk
847/467-0936
1880 Campus Drive, Kresge Hall, Office 4-425
Office Hours: varies by quarter, please contact instructor

Meeting Info

University Library 3370: Tues, Thurs 12:30PM - 1:50PM

Overview of class

AY26 Why do people say certain languages are "sweet"? Why are some languages written in several different alphabets? Why have people killed and died, not for a nation or a religion, but for a language?

Questions like these will drive our exploration of language in South Asia, both past and present. Although languages sometimes seem like facts of nature, they have been shaped in profound ways by both human and nonhuman forces, sometimes deliberately and sometimes entirely by accident. In this course, we will examine these histories from a variety of perspectives, using a wide range of primary documents as well as scholarly writings to think about how political struggles, cultural expressions, and technological revolutions have remade these essential facets of everyday life.

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, students will be able to:
• analyze historical, social, and cultural aspects of language in South Asia and its diaspora;
• make cogent and persuasive arguments, orally and in writing, incorporating careful analysis of primary and secondary materials;
• critically evaluate scholarly work relating to South Asian history and culture;
• work with classmates to produce knowledge collaboratively.

Teaching Method

lecture/seminar

Evaluation Method

participation, short assignments, presentations, in-class papers

Class Materials (Required)

all materials distributed in class or on Canvas

Class Attributes

Advanced Expression
Literature and Arts Foundational Discipline
Literature & Fine Arts Distro Area

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Reserved for students majoring or minoring in Asian Languages & Cultures or International Studies until the end of preregistration, after which time enrollment will be open to everyone who has taken the prerequisites, if applicable.