University of Galway

Course Module Information

Course Modules

Semester 2 | Credits: 5

This module aims to examine the conception of 'childhood' as depicted in Irish-language texts, including texts from Old and Middle-Irish as well as contemporary literary texts. It also includes the study of Irish-language children's literature. It will be delivered through English by members of Roinn na Gaeilge, School of Languages, Literatures and Cultures.
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Compare and contrast the representations of childhood in Irish-language literary texts from early Irish through to the modern day.
  2. Discuss the importance of the National School System (1831) in relation to the Irish language.
  3. Give an account of traditional Irish-language games for children.
  4. Conduct independent research on the archival material from the School's Folklore Collection available online at www.duchas.ie.
  5. Give an account of the prominent themes and motifs in works of fiction for children in the writings of several Irish authors.
  6. Describe the importance attributed to the child in the Irish-language revival movement.
Assessments
  • Continuous Assessment (100%)
Teachers
Reading List
  1. "The Irish folklore commission: history, ideology and methodology" by Briody, M.
    Publisher: Finnish Literature Society
  2. "'"Lessons for Life": the representation of adult-child relationships in twentieth-century Irish-language autobiographical writing' in Maria Luddy & James Smith (eds), Children, Childhood and Irish Society" by Nic Eoin, M.
    Publisher: Four Courts Press
  3. "The Islandman" by O'Crohan, T.
    Publisher: Clarendon Press
The above information outlines module CSS1101: "Irish Childhoods: Gaelic Language and Literature" and is valid from 2023 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.