Celtic, MA (Hons)

Course summary

Study Celtic at the University of Edinburgh and you will learn about extraordinarily rich cultures, from the Middle Ages to the 21st century.At all levels of study on our four-year programme, we offer courses in the languages, literatures, histories, and cultures of the Celtic world.You have the option to study Scottish Gaelic and build up to advanced competency in the language.A choice of pathways through the programme enables you to develop your own interests in particular areas, periods and disciplines of Celtic studies.Our expertise covers:

• Scottish Gaelic from the late Middle Ages to the present, including language policy and revitalisation

• the medieval literary tradition in Early Irish and Medieval Welsh - the most extensive in the whole of Europe

• the rich oral tradition recorded from the 18th century to the present day

• poetry from the 18th century golden age of Gaelic literature

• 19th and 20th century responses to the rapid social, cultural, and linguistic changes in countries where the Celtic languages are spoken

• the writing, song, and media production emerging from the lively and varied contemporary cultural scene in Gaelic Scotland, Ireland, and Wales

Language studyIf you choose to study Scottish Gaelic, it does not matter if you are a complete beginner; we stream our Year 1 classes to suit all levels of prior knowledge, or none.You can also learn a medieval Celtic language at honours level (Years 3 and 4). Both Old Irish and Middle Welsh are available. For this path, you will study Celtic civilisation and literature in Years 1 and 2, with texts presented in English translation.Why EdinburghEdinburgh has a long-established Gaelic community and a lively contemporary cultural scene.As Scotland's capital city, its collections are outstanding, as are the University's own resources for the study of Celtic.Our programme is extremely flexible. In Years 1 and 2, in addition to studying Celtic, you will choose option courses from a wide range of disciplines. You will then specialise as you progress through your honours years.When you graduate, you will have the combination of broad cultural education and specialist knowledge valued by employers worldwide.

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