Spring 2010

MES 322K • GYPSY LANGUAGE AND CULTURE - W

Course Description

This course presents the linguistic history of Romani ("Gypsy") people, from 5th Century BC India to the present day. Theories relating to this exodus out of Subcontinent & the subsequent migrations into Europe are discussed on the basis of social & linguistic evidence available to us. In addition to studying aspects of the lexicon & syntax of the modern American & European dialects of Romani lang, an introduction to Gypsy history & culture will also form part of the course. We will examine sociology of this Diaspora people, the Indian roots of their music, cuisine & social traditions, external linguistic & cultural influences, & interactions with non-Gypsy peoples. The reasons for the persistence of stereotypical image of Gypsy among non-Gypsies will be discussed, & also examined will be the five hundred years of slavery, transportation to American plantations, the fate of Romani people in the Holocaust, & current struggle for civil & political rights since Gypsies gained admittance to the United Nations Organization in 1979.

Grading Policy

2 term papers, 4 written tests, 1 book report

Texts

Hancock, We Are the Romani People; Course supplement at Speedway Copying in Dobie Mall

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