GRN3125

German dialects and dialectology

(ART)

H Kreutz

6 points + 3 hours per week + Second semester + Clayton + Prerequisites: Advanced German Studies 1, part 2 or above; or equivalent (to be determined after consultation with subject coordinators)

Synopsis: This subject introduces German dialects and dialectology. The course will explore traditional methods (speech atlases, dialect maps) and structural dialectology, and provide students with a background in regional and historical dialectology. The students will also be introduced to contemporary dialectology: social dialects, dialect as a group identity marker (youth, age and gender), sociology of dialects with particular reference to dialect and central processes of societal change, dialect and standard language, and dialect and the education system.

Assessment: Essay (1800-2000 words, in German or English): 40% + Class paper: 10% + Examination (1 hour): 30% + 3 practical homework exercises: 20%