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Introduction to Nordic Studies 2 is the second of two core modules in Scandinavian Studies. These modules are intended to introduce students to significant historical, political, cultural, and linguistic events and topics in the Nordic region, to introduce students to analytical methods, tools and critical perspectives derived from a range of disciplines in the Humanities and Social Sciences, and to practice academic skills for independent research, presentation, and essay writing.

In the first part of Introduction to Nordic Studies 2, we explore how languages, cultures and societies in the Nordic region are intertwined. Through case studies, students are introduced to historical relatedness and typological similarities and differences of the languages of the region and relate internal developments to important events in the external histories of these languages. Focus will be on topics such as: linguistic composition and linguistic history of the region; language typology; language contact and language competition; writing systems; culture and politics of orthography and spelling conventions; national revivals and language reforms; standard language ideologies in the Nordic region; language endangerment and language revivals (minorities); and linguistic rights and linguistic citizenship (minorities; immigration).

The second part of the module will focus on current and contemporary issues in Nordic societies. We shall consider which issues are of relevance to the Nordic region today, how contemporary concerns are approached, and what discussions and aims shape the current and future Nordic societies. The topics considered will connect with one or more of the following subject areas: history; modern history; multiculturalism and migration; indigenous study/cultures; cultural/urban geography; environmental-, Arctic-, and gender studies; art and culture. We shall select two specific topic areas each year, chosen from the subject areas above. To explore the selected topics, we shall draw on a range of materials, some text-based as well as from other media, and including a variety of cultural outputs. The first topic will be mainly tutor-led, while for the second topic students are expected to contribute substantially with prepared text- and material analyses.

No pre-requisites (apart from an interest in the Nordic region) are needed for taking this module and we welcome students from outside of Scandinavian Studies.

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