Cuneiform. An introduction for beginners
This course has now started
- Course Code: RC117
- Dates: 19/04/24 - 10/05/24
- Time: 14:00 - 16:30
- Taught: Fri, Daytime
- Duration: 4 sessions (over 4 weeks)
- Location: Keeley Street
- Tutor: Hugo Cook
Course Code: RC117
Duration: 4 sessions (over 4 weeks)
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Centre for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
What is the course about?
Learn the basics of the Cuneiform script and the Old Persian language and gain the ability to read common key phrases when visiting sites like the British Museum.
What will we cover?
Students will learn the script and the basic grammar of Old Persian, acquiring the ability to read simple texts in Cuneiform. Of all the ancient West Asian languages that use the Cuneiform script, Old Persian is the easiest for English-speakers as it is part of the Indo-European language family, like English, Latin, Greek, etc. This means students can make some great progress and translate texts in good time, and it is an excellent introduction into ancient languages. This course will also allow students to gain an insight into ancient Persian culture and the fascinating ideologies recorded in these wedge-shaped symbols. The course will explore how the Persians created the script (a marvellous story about Darius the Great), the sort of things one can read in this wonderful language, how it was deciphered, as well as the people who used it and what their culture was like.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- Read simple texts written in cuneiform.
- Demonstrate new insight into the fascinating culture of Ancient Persia.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This course is suitable if you are a complete beginner. As this course is taught in English, you should be able to
follow verbal and written instructions in English and also take part in class and group activities.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
The course will combine some lecturing with activities and viewing of objects at the British Museum (visits will be organised at the start of the course). Students are expected to participate in the activities and to do some homework every week.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
Resources and handouts will be provided by the tutor.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
The tutor will be able to advise you on a progression course.
Hugo Cook studied Egyptology at Oxford and Cambridge universities. He can read six ancient languages and has worked as an Egyptologist in galleries, TV documentaries, educational institutions, and publications. Recently he has been working on a major new museum in Egypt and is writing a new book on Egyptology for Macmillan Publishers. He develops online Egyptological content for over 90,000 followers. Nothing gives him more joy than discussing antiquity with interested students.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.
