Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Synopsis This subject explores the origin and tradition of sacred song as part of myth and religious ritual in European culture from antiquity to the present. It investigates the establishment and development of the hymn as one of the most important genres of poetry, and its phenomenology in magical invocation, prayer song, sacerdotal adjuration, prophetic and mystic incantation, and philosophical hymn. Particular attention will be paid to the integration of intercultural influences, the hymn's relation to myth, and its function in ritual practices and the establishment of a religious community in the past and today. Texts will be studied in translations, but students of classical and European languages other than English are encouraged to use their language competence for further studies. All students are encouraged to develop their individual research project.
Assessment (8 points) Paper (2000 words): 40% + Essay (4000 words): 60%
Assessment (12 points) 2 papers (2000 words each): 20% each + research essay (5000 words): 60%.