AANL

This class introduces the Hittite Vow texts as part of Hittite religion and economy.

This is the third in a three-quarter sequence that covers the basic grammar and cuneiform writing system of the Hittite language. It also familiarizes the student with the field’s tools (i.e., dictionaries, lexica, sign list). Readings come from all periods of Hittite history (1650 to 1180 B.C.).

In this advanced Hittite course we will explore the roles and functions of women in Hittite society by comparing the image created by kings with the image that flows from their own writings and actions. Queens that will be discussed are the 'evil' Tawanannas and Queen Puduhepa, who had her own independent correspondence with the Great Kings and royals of other countries. We will also investigate the 'Wise Women', a class of diviners that seems to have operated as an advisory council to the king in matters of danger to the state.

As part of a three-quarter sequence, this second quarter we finish the grammar and start reading Hittite texts, introducing the student to the various genres that Hittite literature has to offer. We will continue the introduction of important tools of the field and students will acquire further routine in reading cuneiform.

As part of a three quarter sequence, this course familiarizes the student with about 3/4 of Hittite grammar. The principles of the cuneiform writing system are taught and the student will learn some 100 signs of the basic syllabary and most important logograms. Also, a begin is made of introducing the student to the basic tools of the field.

The Hittite king and queen maintained a regular correspondence with their peers in Egypt and Babylon. Officials of the Hittite administration wrote to their subordinates and superiors, and scribes often added piggy-back letters for their colleagues on the 'other' side. These letters provide great insight in the international power dynamics of the Late Bronze Age, the workings of the Hittite administration, and the political struggles in the Hittite Kingdom.

Advanced Readings in Hittite historical texts

As part of a three-quarter sequence, this second quarter we finish the grammar and start reading Hittite texts, introducing the student to the various genres that Hittite literature has to offer. We will continue the introduction of important tools of the field and students will acquire further routine in reading cuneiform.

What we call Hittite mythology is in fact a cover term for rather disparate strands of tradition: one at home in central Anatolia and often providing the etiology for rituals or religious festivals, and one derived from Hurrian speaking societies in northern Mesopotamia. We will read texts from both traditions and explore not only the differences in content and literary style, but also their Sitz im Leben.

As part of a three quarter sequence, this course familiarizes the student with about 3/4 of Hittite grammar. The principles of the cuneiform writing system are taught and the student will learn some 100 signs of the basic syllabary and most important logograms. Also, a begin is made of introducing the student to the basic tools of the field.