Comparative Semitic Grammar

3 Credits.

This course introduces the phonology, morphology, syntax, and lexicon of the Semitic languages from the perspective of historical and comparative linguistics. It situates the Semitic language family within its broader Afroasiatic context and explores the methods used to compare related languages, identify shared linguistic features, reconstruct proto-languages, and trace the diachronic evolution of linguistic change. Particular attention will be given to the comparison of the five major Semitic languages: Akkadian, Aramaic, Hebrew, Arabic, and Ethiopic (Ge?ez). Other ancient and modern Semitic languages—such as Phoenician, Sabaic, and Mehri—will be discussed in passing. Prerequisite: A basic knowledge of one Semitic language is required.