This unit deals with the role placenames play in human society. On every map we may find a wealth of historical, cultural and linguistic information frozen in the names that people have given to places. Placenames also form an integral part of cultural and linguistic heritage, and may encapsulate details about the geographic nature of a named feature, when it was named, and who bestowed it. Moreover, placenames may offer insights into the belief and value systems of the name-givers, as well as political and social circumstances at the time of naming. In many regions, they also reveal the chronology of exploration and settlement – Australia is a prime example. Through analysis of various... -- Course Website
Instructor: Dr Jan Tent
Prerequisites: 39cp
