This course offers a variety of subjects devoted to the linguistic, historical and socio-cultural make-up of pre-modern Ashkenazic (Yiddish-speaking) society. It provides students with the opportunity to expand their knowledge of Yiddish Studies and, simultaneously, gain an understanding of Yiddish in the context of European languages, literatures and cultures. Subjects are taught by Yiddish specialists in the Faculty and researchers of related fields across the University.

The MSt aims to provide systematic academic training for aspiring scholars, instructors, and educators in the field of Yiddish language, literature, and culture. It requires proficiency in written and spoken Yiddish, and is designed further to enhance and invigorate students’ linguistic proficiency, academic competence, and cultural literacy. It can be taken both as a qualification in its own right and as a preparation for doctoral research in Yiddish studies.

Course Structure

• Modern Yiddish literature, 1864-1939
• The history of the Yiddish language
• 1 Special Subject
• Dissertation 

Course Content

The Special Subjects can include:

• Old Yiddish Literature (survey)
• Twentieth-Century Centres of Yiddish Literature and Culture
• Sociology of Yiddish
• History of Yiddish Studies
• Yiddish Stylistics

Applicants should ascertain in advance which of the Special Subjects will be available in any given year. Enquiries can be made via the Graduate Office at graduate.studies@mod-langs.ox.ac.uk 

Assessment

Candidates must write a dissertation of between 8,000 and 10,000 words on a subject proposed by the candidate in consultation with the supervisor.

There is no written examination.