The course includes readings on specific problems of Sumerian grammar and study of literary and lexical texts, chiefly from the Old Babylonian period (ca. 2000-1600 BC). Students are expected to deepen their knowledge of the cuneiform script and to be able to undertake individual research on Sumerian language and texts by the end of the year. To that effect much emphasis will be put on methodology: how to use dictionaries, electronic databases, sign lists, editions of ancient lexical and grammatical texts.