140132 UE Nepali A: Earthquake 1934 & 2015 in the Nepali and Hindi Literature (2019S)

Due to its location, Nepal is known as earthquake danger zone. The major events in the past caused enormous losses in terms of casualties, injuries, biodiversity, and the country’s economy. Two major earthquake 1934 and 2015 can be found in existing Hindi and Nepali literature.

We will read selected passages from Brahma shamsher Janga Bahadur Rana’s nepālko mahābhūkampa, and other selected articles, poems, stories. Our course aims at development of overall proficiency in the language and build up advanced capacity of reading, writing and interpreting skills. Moreover, we will also read passages from Hindi literature focussing on Nepali literature (e.g. Rahul Sankrityayan’s autobiography merī jīvan yātrā 2).
The class meetings are divided into close reading, discussion and formal lecturing. It is absolutely necessary that all students engage with the weekly reading in order to participate in the class discussions. Selected texts will be used in the class for close reading, translation and analysis. Regular participation and a sound knowledge of Nepali are strictly demanded for the course. Final examination asks students to respond to questions pertaining to the class readings. The final grade will be calculated as follows: class attendance, reading text preparation and participation 20%, final written exam 25%, home works 20% and an essay in Nepali/Hindi (35%).