Heather Lynch
“Learn and live Yiddish” aptly summarizes the goal of the recently launched intensive beginner course in Yiddish language and culture.
This five-week immersion program, which started in May and runs until mid-June, originated as part of the new course offerings for the minor in Jewish Canadian Studies at the University. The program introduces students to the basics of Yiddish – grammar, vocabulary and conversation – and also gives them an appreciation of the many facets of Yiddish cultural life, including music, literature, theatre, film, and social, educational and religious institutions.
Course instructor Professor Rebecca Margolis, of the Vered Jewish Canadian Studies Program, says, “This course is geared to anyone seeking a solid foundation in Yiddish.” The students currently enrolled in the program are as diverse as the world of Yiddish itself. The group includes native speakers seeking formal instruction in the language; researchers interested in Yiddish literature and culture; musicians who sing or play Yiddish music; and students from high school through the post-graduate level, from different disciplines and with different interests. Some participants come with prior exposure to Yiddish; for others, the course represents their first contact with the language and culture.
The graduation ceremony on June 12 will include presentations and performances by the students: readings, music, and much more. The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in Simard Hall, Room 125, 60 University Private. The community is warmly invited, and no previous knowledge of Yiddish is required. Please RSVP online: www.president.uottawa.ca.
Professor Margolis hopes that this marks the beginning of a long and fruitful association of the University with Yiddish language and culture, both as a language of study and a subject of research.
