Teaching
The aim of the subject Semitic Languages and Cultures is to provide solid proficiency in Arabic and, depending on the chosen degree programme, in one or two additional Semitic languages, familiarity with linguistic and philological methods, as well as a comprehensive foundation in the cultures and literatures of Semitic-speaking peoples.
The subject approaches its field not only through linguistic and philological methods, but, as a discipline of cultural and regional studies, also encompasses literature, history, religion, and society.
In both research and teaching, Heidelberg upholds the principle that combining older and modern varieties of the selected languages is essential for understanding processes of linguistic history and for gaining familiarity with the typological features of this language family. Students are therefore required to acquire knowledge of both the classical written and the modern spoken varieties. Great emphasis is placed on working with source texts (literary works and transcribed dialect recordings).
Written assignments may be completed in English at all stages of study; in some cases, courses may also be taught in English.