Module Overview

Indicative Syllabus:

Saol agus saoithiúlacht na Gaeilge:

·      A diverse range of historical and contemporary topics pertaining to the Irish language;

·      Irish language communities both within and without the traditional Gaeltacht areas;

·      Irish language organisations and festivals;

·      Cultural aspects of the language which pertain to the everyday experience of the students, e.g. placenames, surnames, social media etc.;

·      It will be demonstrated that Irish is a vibrant, living language which is representative of a culture with which students have a deep and lasting historical connection.

Sochtheangeolaíocht na Gaeilge:

·      The linguistic history of the language;

·      The conscious efforts to supress the Irish language community over several centuries;

·      The linguistic impact of colonialism;

·      ‘Meon an Imirceora’ and linguistic inferiority complex as cultural phenomena in Ireland;

·      The cultural revival movement;

·      Postcolonialism and language;

·      Relevant language issues including, inter alia, language policies (or their absence) of both northern and southern states, Irish in the education system, community/employment/planning issues in the Gaeltachtaí, language planning, legal issues related to the language, etc.

Béaloideas:

·      Superstitions, charms, death customs, home remedies;

·      Pre-Christian Celtic festivals;

·      Mythological narratives;

·      Coimisiún Bhéaloideas Éireann;

·      Folklore in the 21st century;

·      Traditional singing;

·      Song folklore and history;

·      Traditional music and dance.