Annotation
The course provides the students with a basic knowledge of Dutch and of the cultures of Dutch-speaking nations. The language is explored comparatively, both internally, through discussion of its different varieties, and externally, through comparisons with its three big neighbours, German, French and English.
The students will learn the fundamentals of Dutch orthography and pronunciation. They will also get acquainted with the basic vocabulary of Dutch and learn how to deduce the meanings of Dutch words by applying their knowledge of other languages such as English and German.
The course is of practical benefit and interest to students of philosophy, general linguistics, art history, European history, et cetera, and of course to students considering a short- or long-term stay in a Dutch-speaking country.