How to think about the Historical Linguistics of Japanese Language

This course will consider topics such as the sounds, shapes, and grammar of the Japanese language. Specifically, the text topics are regarded as "subordinate" and the explanations that promote understanding as "superior." As such, it is assumed that students will have read the texts in advance. There are several short essays in the textbook, but the instructor will advise which essays will be covered in the previous session.

History of the Japanese language, language changes, language systems, etymology

These lectures are, figuratively speaking, not studio recordings played back on a CD, but highly improvisational live performances. Since this is a "participatory course" where students participate in the progression of the class, questions during class are welcome. Moreover, each class participant will write down and submit the key points of, questions related to, and their impressions of each class—this will ensure the class remains interactive. In one-sided classes, misunderstandings are left unattended, questions are blocked, and the class itself becomes a waste of time. In this course, we emphasize quality over quantity and are happy to welcome and provide explanations, comments, and questions until all class participants fully understand the material. As such, although the class is organized into to the following sessions, the order and content of the sessions may be modified depending on the progress of our discussions.

・Guidance (Week 1)
・Sound (Weeks 2–7)
How do you describe "linguistic sounds"?
Was the ha-gyo consonant in ancient Japanese [p]?
The mystery of voiced consonants
・Grammar (Weeks 8-–1)
Why are there variations and irregular changes?
・The history and etymology of words (Weeks 12–15)
Bird names and sounds
Etymology of buta (pig)
・Exam (Week 16)
・Course survey

Syllabus (Japanese site only)