DESCRIPTION:

This course, the first of a two-course sequence, will provide the student with an introduction to the orthography, phonology, morphology, and syntax of the Ugaritic language. Since it is necessary to provide the unvocalized text with vowels, the course is also an excellent introduction to Comparative Semitic phonology and morphology.

For students pursuing either a course of study leading to an advanced degree in Old Testament or Semitic Languages and Literatures, a knowledge of the grammar and the literature of the Ugaritic language is an important discipline to master. Ugaritic is a Northwest Semitic dialect more closely related in many respects to the later Canaanite languages such as Hebrew and Aramaic than either the East Semitic dialects of Akkadian or the Southwest Semitic languages of the Arabic and Ethiopic regions. Further, it provides a most important source of material that is closely parallel in its literary forms and religious content to that of the later Canaanite world with which ancient Israel was not only closely related culturally but also in intimate contact.

The course will meet twice weekly in two-hour sessions for recitation of texts prepared from a workbook provided for the student.

Bush, F. W. Ugaritic Workbook. Syllabus.

Gordon, Cyrus H. Ugaritic Textbook. Analectia Orientalia, no. 38. Rome: Pontifical Biblical Institute, 1965.

Assigned lessons from the syllabus will be prepared before coming to class.

LG502. In addition to a working knowledge of Hebrew, study of at least one other Semitic language is advised.

Further, since the course is intended for Th.M. and Ph.D. students, master's level students are advised to consult with the professor regarding readiness for the course.

Requirement for M.A. in Semitic Languages and Literature.

Yes.