Learning the syntax of Babylonian Aramaic and building vocabulary will be accomplished through study of the text of a Babylonian Talmud tractate and its traditional commentaries. Comparisons to Biblical Aramaic and other Aramaic dialects will be noted. Y.N. Epstein's Aramit Bavlit will be the reference for grammar study. M. Sokoloff's A Dictionary of Jewish Babylonian Aramaic is the required dictionary. Jastrow’s Dictionary of Talmud Babli, Yerushalmi, Midrashic Literature, and Targumim may also be helpful. Strong Hebrew background and/or introductory Aramaic required.