Sanskrit has had a tremendous cultural influence throughout Asia and the world. Studying Sanskrit is a gateway to learning more about the arts, science, and philosophy of South Asia, as well as the religious streams of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. Six professors in the department work with the Sanskrit language, offering students an excitingly wide range of supervision.
Introductory (Year 1)
The introductory course is divided into in two half courses: RLG260H1: Introduction to Sanskrit I and RLG263H1: Introduction to Sanskrit II. Over the two half courses, you will reach a point at which you can read simple texts in the original language. There are no prerequisites for RLG260H1. RLG260H1 is a prerequisite for RLG263H1.
Intermediate (Year 2)
In the intermediate (RLG359H1: Intermediate Sanskrit I and RLG360H1: Intermediate Sanskrit II) and advanced courses you will have the opportunity to read a wide range of texts in a workshop atmosphere. Courses are open both to U of T students and others. For those outside of the U of T community, please see our guidelines on Auditing a Course.
Advanced (Year 3)
In the advanced course, RLG474H1: Sanskrit Readings I, students read choice pieces of South Asian literature. While tackling a text in Sanskrit from a major literary tradition, Buddhist or Hindu, and discussing its content and context, students will learn strategies for translating and interpreting Sanskrit literature.
For information, please contact Professor Libbie Mills.