Irish Studies

An opportunity to learn about the intriguing history, politics, literature, and art of Ireland is available to you through a minor in Irish Studies at Fairfield University. Courses focus on the troubled history of the nation, its colonial and postcolonial significance, its difficult politics of Northern Ireland, and the inspired art and literature that emerged from its turbulent past. The program organizes a number of courses previously available in various departments and enhances them with new features. Enthusiasm for this area of study has surged in the last three decades as the Irish people have sought to resolve long-standing political issues and taken an interesting role in the new global economy. Fairfield, with a significant Irish-American representation among its students and alumni, provides a welcoming environment for Irish Studies. The University hosts a number of lectures, concerts, plays, and readings that complement the academic program and has established a study abroad affiliate with the National University of Ireland, Galway.

IRST 1111 Introduction to the Irish Language I    3 Credits

Attributes: IRSE Irish Studies Elective

This course, the first in a two-course sequence, offers students an introductory level study of the Irish Gaelic language. Irish is the oldest surviving Celtic language, dating to the Roman Empire, and it opens a window to the Gaelic Order prior to 1690, a span of over 15 centuries. This course sequence teaches students the basics of grammar, syntax, speaking and writing in Irish, as well as some of the historical and cultural contexts within which the Irish language developed and to which it is deeply tied. This course does not count for core credit in Modern and Classical Languages. Previously IRI 0110.

IRST 1112 Introduction to the Irish Language II    3 Credits

Attributes: IRSE Irish Studies Elective

Prerequisite: IRST 1111.

This course, a continuation of IRST 1111, offers students an introductory level study of the Irish Gaelic language. Irish is the oldest surviving Celtic language, dating to the Roman Empire, and it opens a window to the Gaelic Order prior to 1690, a span of over 15 centuries. This course sequence teaches students the basics of grammar, syntax, speaking and writing in Irish, as well as some of the historical and cultural contexts within which the Irish language developed and to which it is deeply tied. The class may be attended online-only as well. This course does not count for core credit in Modern and Classical Languages. Previously IRI 0111.

Co-Directors

Abbott (History)
White (Lecturer, English)

Affiliated Faculty

Abbott (History)
Epstein (English)
Harding (Psychological and Brain Sciences)
Pearson (English)
Rose (Art History)
White (Lecturer, English)
Yarrington (Visual and Performing Arts)

Steering Committee

Abbott (History)
Epstein (English)
Pearson (English)
Rose (Art History)
White (English)