ENG4119 – Early Modern English
Course description
Course content
This course introduces you to the Early Modern English period between 1500 and 1700 – to the Renaissance, the Reformation, and Shakespeare. We study the linguistic features of Early Modern English, and how they differ from present-day English, both with reference to theoretical descriptions and to authentic texts. We also consider Early Modern English in the context of the processes of language change that English has undergone. In addition, emphasis will be placed on understanding language and language change in the context of the historical period.
Learning outcome
After completing this course, you will
- be able to account for the main lexical, morpho-syntactic and phonological features of the period
- ba able to identify and analyze a number of early modern English texts
- be able to give an overview of the background for the linguistic changes that took place in this period
- be able to account for some of the main cultural and historical aspects of the period
Teaching
Seminar, 2 hours per week for 14 weeks , 28 hours in total. Attendance is obligatory at least 11 out of 14 seminars. Additional absences must be justified by documentation given to the exam coordinator. Active participation is expected.
Examination
The exam consists of a final four-hour written exam.
To sit the final exam, candidates must have submitted two qualifying papers, and these must have been approved.
Digital examination
The written examination is conducted in the digital examination system Inspera. You will need to familiarize yourself with the digital examination arrangements in Inspera.
Read more about written examinations using Inspera.
Language of examination
The examination text is given in English, and you submit your response in English.
Grading scale
Grades are awarded on a scale from A to F, where A is the best grade and F is a fail. Read more about the grading system.
Explanations and appeals
Resit an examination
Withdrawal from an examination
It is possible to take the exam up to 3 times. If you withdraw from the exam after the deadline or during the exam, this will be counted as an examination attempt.
Special examination arrangements
Application form, deadline and requirements for special examination arrangements.