ELEMENTS OF SAHIDIC COPTIC

This course will focus on the language and culture of late antique Egyptian Christians. Students will, therefore, gain both a basic knowledge of the ancient Coptic language (with particular attention to the Sahidic dialect) and a familiarity with central components of early Christian culture in Egypt, including monasticism, scribal culture, ritual practice, and so-called Gnosticism.

Knowledge and understanding
o Gain a basic understanding of the components of the Sahidic Coptic language, including vocabulary and grammar.
o Know how to analyze ancient texts and artifacts that are important for the study of Christianity in Egypt during the late ancient period.
o Know the academic terminology and academic concepts of the study of Late Ancient Egypt.

- Ability to apply knowledge and understanding
o Acquire the ability to use the vocabulary, grammar and syntax of the Coptic language to read late ancient Egyptian sources, including literary texts and manuscripts.
o Know how to articulate the basic history of Christianity in Egypt during the late ancient period.
o Know how to critically interact with the most significant scholarly works for the study of Late Ancient Egypt.

There are no particular prerequisite courses that are required; however, some general knowledge of ancient history and culture is highly recommended.

The content of this course is divided into two parts. On the one hand, the course includes a basic overview of the Sahidic Coptic language (e.g., the vocabulary, grammar, and syntax). On the other hand, the course will engage with some of the central aspects of Egyptian Christianity during late antiquity. Concerning the latter, we will read various texts (both in the original and in translation) that address a range of topics, including monasticism, scribal culture, magic, and Gnosticism. We will also reflect on the significance of these texts and objects for understanding religious, ethnic, and group boundaries in late antiquity.

Required Text:

Italian Translation: Lambdin, T. O., Corso di copto sahidico (ed. A. Elli; Ananke, 2010).
Original English Version: Lambdin, T. O., Introduction to Sahidic Coptic (Mercer University Press, 1983).

Optional Books:
Buzi, P. ed A. Soldati, La lingua copta (Hoepli, 2021).
Layton, B. A Coptic Grammar: With Chrestomathy and Glossary. Sahidic Dialect (3rd edition; Harrassowitz, 2011).
Layton, B. Coptic in 20 Lessons: Introduction to Sahidic Coptic with Exercises & Vocabularies (Peeters, 2007).

The learning of course content will be assessed through a written exam. The exam will be based on course readings, lectures, and seminar discussions. Students will answer questions in the following two areas: (1) the Sahidic Coptic language; (2) the culture of Christianity in Egypt during the late antique period.

The course consists of readings, lectures, and seminar work.

English

written