Persian and English Literature

Persian is one of the major languages of the Middle East and Central Asia. Its modern form has three variants which, collectively, are the first language of over 120 million people. It is the national language of Iran, where it is known as Farsi. It is spoken as Dari in Afghanistan and Tajik in Tajikistan.

To study Persian is to enter a diverse culture that has produced:

• major epic and Sufi poets

• world-class cinema

• exquisite fine art and textiles

The language is also a gateway to understanding modern Iran, a dynamic society at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. You will study Iran's historical, literary, cultural and political life, and the rich intellectual heritage of Islam.

Combine language learning with literary training

Our joint honours programme is designed for complete beginners in Persian. It is not for native speakers, but we do welcome heritage language learners. We can also accommodate students with some prior experience of studying Persian through exemptions from introductory language study.

You will develop advanced language skills over your four years, including in translation. You will learn to express yourself in modern Persian on a wide range of topical issues, and will gain the skills to engage with original material and contemporary Persian texts.

Studying English Literature will further develop your critical, analytic, linguistic and creative skills. You will engage with a broad range of texts from around the world and a variety of approaches to reading.

You will explore the cultural contexts of writing in English from the late Middle Ages to the present, specialising at honours level in specific topics, periods or genres.

Why Edinburgh

Edinburgh is the first UNESCO World City of Literature. For centuries, it has been the home and muse of many great writers.

From the University's Special Collections to the National Library of Scotland, the city's resources for studying literatures, languages and cultures are exceptional.

The University of Edinburgh is internationally recognised as a leading institution for teaching and research in Persian, Islam, and the Middle East. We are also the oldest centre for the study of English Literature in the UK, one of the longest-established in the world.

Studying over four years gives you the blend of specialist skills valued by employers around the globe. In particular, this programme shows an openness to ideas and perspectives other than your own, an essential attribute in many careers.

How long it takes to complete this degree programme

This programme is studied over 4 years, including up to one year abroad. This enables us to build choice and flexibility into your studies, giving you time to explore options, find what you like and build your skills.

Your first two years will be your pre-honours years. They will give you a good grounding in your subjects.

Your final two years will be your honours years. You may be able to spend time studying abroad in Year 3, gaining lived experience of Middle Eastern cultures. Year 4 will be tailored to your interests in Persian studies and to specific topics, periods, genres, or approaches to English literature.

Programme benefits

• Learn in an historic city where Persian has been taught since the 19th century.

• Become fluent in a language spoken by over 120 million people worldwide.

• Study in the heart of a UNESCO World City of Literature.

• Join societies related to what you are studying.

• Delve into fantastic libraries and collections.

• Try your hand at creative writing and publishing.