Oriental languages and civilizations

General objective The general objective of the course is acquisition of an overall picture of the salient categories, seen in broad historical perspective, of Hindu thought. This competence will be achieved largely by frontal classes, during which ample space will be given to discussion. By means of debate the students will compare western philosophico-religious categories with Hindu philosophico-religious categories, in order to highlight similarities and differences, so as to foster better understanding of the Indian specificity. The understanding of the main categories of Hindu thought can be enhanced by the choice, within the optional group, of Sanskrit Language and Literature. The historical perspective can be further examined through the course of History of India, in order to highlight the fact that paradigm shifts in philosophical thought correspond to social and historical changes. Specific objectives Qualifications that signify completion of the course are awarded to students who: • have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the main categories of Hindu thought, and are typically at a level that, whilst supported by primary sources (such as Vedic Hymns or Upaniṣadic passages), includes an awareness of the evolution and the interconnectedness of the above-mentioned categories in the overall picture of Indian philosophical debate; • can apply their knowledge and understanding in a manner that indicates that they understand, at least in broad terms, a religious or philosophical text, and have competences typically demonstrated through assessing it in a historical framework; • have the ability to gather and interpret, by preparing brief book reports, relevant data to summarise the contents of primary sources; • can communicate, by preparing brief reports to be discussed with the teacher and the other students, information, ideas, problems and solutions relating to the main issues that characterise Hindu thought; • have developed those learning skills that are necessary for them to undertake further study of specific philosophical systems or religious movements in the historical context.