Comparative Philology, also known as comparative linguistics, is the study of language relationships by examining similarities between languages to infer their shared ancestry. This fascinating field delves into the historical connections between languages, often reconstructing proto-languages and tracing linguistic evolution over centuries. For those immersed in or intrigued by this discipline, the Comparative Philology Graduate Seminar at Oxford University offers a rich, long-standing tradition of scholarly exploration and discussion.
Since the 1970s, the seminar has been a cornerstone for philologists at Oxford, bringing together students and faculty every Tuesday during term time. Each term is structured around a different overarching theme, allowing for an in-depth examination of various facets of comparative philology. The academic year is thoughtfully divided, with each term contributing a unique perspective to the broader field.
In Michaelmas Term, the seminar typically addresses a broad linguistic topic, analyzing its relevance and application to primarily ancient Indo-European languages. Past topics have been diverse and insightful, ranging from the intricacies of accent and the challenges of syntactic reconstruction to the nuances of moods, the dynamics of language contact, and the complexities of metre. This term serves as a foundational exploration of key linguistic concepts within the comparative framework.
Hilary Term shifts focus to the detailed structure and historical development of specific languages or language families. This term encourages contributions from both established experts and those newly entering the field, fostering a vibrant exchange of knowledge and perspectives. The range of languages examined in Hilary Term is impressive, encompassing languages like Hieroglyphic Luwian, Old English, Faliscan, Old Irish, and Tocharian, among many others. This provides a deep dive into the specifics of linguistic evolution within different branches of the Indo-European family and beyond.
Trinity Term provides a platform for “Work in Progress” presentations. This is a valuable opportunity for both MPhil and DPhil students to present their ongoing dissertation research, sharing preliminary findings and engaging in constructive feedback with peers and senior scholars. This term embodies the collaborative and forward-looking nature of the seminar, nurturing the next generation of comparative philologists.
Currently, the seminar is focused on Avestan, an ancient Iranian language closely related to Sanskrit, and crucial for understanding Indo-Iranian and Indo-European linguistics. The current series delves into various aspects of Avestan, including its place within the Indo-Iranian language family, its phonology, morphology, morphosyntax, and clause syntax. This in-depth focus on Avestan exemplifies the seminar’s commitment to exploring specific languages in detail.
Looking back at past seminars reveals the breadth and depth of topics covered over the years. From “Nominal Word Formation in Indo-European” and “The Future in Indo-European” to explorations of specific languages like Albanian, Old High German, and Hittite, the seminar has consistently engaged with core themes in comparative philology. The extensive archive of past seminars, dating back to the 1970s, showcases the enduring legacy of this intellectual tradition at Oxford.
The Comparative Philology Graduate Seminar remains a vital and dynamic forum for linguistic inquiry. It not only provides a space for learning and discussion but also fosters a community of scholars dedicated to unraveling the intricate tapestry of language history. For anyone interested in comparative philology, the Oxford seminar represents a rich resource and a testament to the ongoing importance of this field in understanding the development and relationships of languages across the globe.
