DESCRIPTION: This course, the first of a two-course sequence, will provide the
student with an introduction to several basic subjects that are necessary for
the reading of Akkadian texts. Particular attention will be paid to the
pertinence of Akkadian literature to the field of Old Testament studies.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students successfully completing this two-course sequence
will have demonstrated: (1) a basic comprehension of Akkadian phonology,
morphology, and syntax; (2) understanding of the cuneiform writing system
in general and in particular its Old Babylonian form; (3) ability to utilize
the "tools" of the field such as sign lists, dictionaries, textual corpora, and
digital resources. The ultimate goal of this two-quarter sequence is that
students will gain the ability to readselected passages from the standard
Babylonian version of the Epic of Gilgamesh.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: The study of Akkadian is crucial for students pursuing
an advanced degree in Old Testament. All genres of the Old Testament have
striking parallels with Akkadian documents, and this course will provide a
student with the introductory linguistic and cultural knowledge to assess the
nature of the interrelationship between extra-biblical and biblical
materials.
COURSE FORMAT: This course will meet twice weekly for two-hour sessions. Class
sessions will involve lectures and exercises from Huehnergard, as well as
discussions on relevant historical, sociological and linguistic topics.
REQUIRED READING: