Modern & Medieval Languages
To communicate in another language, whether this involves speaking or listening to others, writing or reading, permits engagement with the culture, history and thought of a language community, past and present, in a way which is unique. The more language skills are developed the greater the rewards in term of understanding and empathising with others. Language also expresses cultural reality and creates social identity. It is these interrelated aspects that the course aims to explore and develop.
The Modern and Medieval Languages papers are taught by the Faculty of Modern and Medieval Languages (MML). There is an emphasis on developing oral and written language skills as well as a range of critical and analytical skills
Preliminary Examination to part I
In the first year students follow courses on the use of your chosen foreign language and carry out exercises in translation from your foreign language.
Part I
In the second year of the course you continue to develop your language skills by translating into and from your foreign language and through listening comprehension. In addition you may choose one or two further papers from options that include the Structure and Varieties of Modern French or German or Spanish languages; The Study of French, German or Spanish / Spanish-American Literature, Thought and History.
Year Abroad
If you plan on studying languages options after Part I, you spend a year abroad to bring your chosen foreign language to near-native standard and prepare for the Part II Oral examination.
Part II
If you choose to study languages in your final year, you must take an oral exam alongside translation from and into your foreign language or an essay in your foreign language. You may also take one paper chosen from further cultural or linguistic options.
MML Website
More information on specific papers can be found here.
Colleges that offer Education with Modern Languages
Christ's, Churchill, Clare, Downing, Emmanuel, Fitzwilliam, Gonville and Caius, Homerton, Hughes Hall, Jesus, Lucy Cavendish, Queens, St Edmund's, St John's, Selwyn, and Wolfson.