Course
Course 15 credits • YIDC12
This course gives you a fascinating insight into Yiddish culture and the language that has been spoken by Ashkenazi Jews for nearly 1,000 years.
You will explore how Yiddish developed in the Germanic countries during the Middle Ages and how it spread to Eastern Europe, the USA, and many other countries.
Unlike Hebrew, which was used by the Jewish intellectual elite, Yiddish was spoken by all social classes. You will read texts written by men, women, and children.
The course covers the rich culture and literature in Yiddish from its beginnings to today. You will study important literary works, cultural traditions, and historical events to understand the unique world that Yiddish represents. We also focus on the challenges and conflicts brought by modernity, as well as discussions about collective identity within the Jewish community.
We will also highlight the tragic fate of Yiddish speakers during the Holocaust and how this has been expressed in literature. The course concludes with an analysis of the current status and future of Yiddish culture in society. This course is suitable for those who want to understand the history of Yiddish culture and its significance today. Feel free to combine this course with language courses, for example "Yiddish: Beginner's Course I" (YIDD10).
Study period:
spring semester 2026
Study period:
2026-01-19 – 2026-06-07
Language of instruction:
English
Eligibility:
General requirements
Type of studies:
part time, 50 %,
distance course
Application code:
LU-E1017
Type of studies:
part time, 50 %,
mixed
Application code:
LU-75107
Type of studies:
part time, 50 %,
distance course
Application code:
LU-75108
- The schedule will be published 2025-12-18.
- Library Guide Yiddish Studies
First Admission Round
Internationell ansökan
Spring semester 2026
Late application
Possibly opens October 3
Second Admission Round
Nationell ansökningsomgång
Spring semester 2026
Application opens 15 September
15October 2025