Language, Culture and Mind

About

This course provides an overview of cognitive linguistics with a cultural emphasis and its applications. In this course, we go over some selected chapters in the development of the field and an overview of state-of-the-art. The overview is followed by additional articles that demonstrate how the theoretical framework can be applied to examine language in use. Class discussions typically come in two parts: first, the lecturer presents the theoretical framework, and in the second part the lecturer introduces some linguistic data that the class may work with.

After taking this course, students will be equipped with basic skills of uncovering hidden conceptual and cultural patterns underlying language in use via a cognitive linguistic approach and will know how to apply cognitive linguistic theory in practice.

This programme is designed as a part of our Intensive 2 Week Summer School, where multiple courses from a wide variety of Masaryk University study programmes and departments will be offered. These courses will be arranged in an intensive and dynamic form, each working day there will be an academic session. In the afternoon and evenings students come together from across disciplines to enjoy everything Brno has to offer!

Course leader

Wei-lun Lu, Jiří Matela

Target group

This course is targeted for bachelor, master and PhD students interested in language and culture. The curriculum requires no specific previous knowledge. Students should be interested in language and culture.

Course aim

Classes take place Monday-Friday (usually) in the mornings. Culture/social activities will take place in the afternoons/nights.

Topics included:
- History of cognitive linguistics
- Linguistic relativity
- Metaphors we live by
- Linguistic categorization
- Translation
- Narrative viewpoint
- The language of space
- Culture in second/foreign language teaching
- Intercultural communication

Program changes reserved.

Fee info

The cost of this program is €1275. The cost breakdowns as follows: Tuition fees; Accommodation in Brno (12-26 July); Breakfast; Orientation; Daily cultural and social activities including welcome and farewell receptions; Saturday trip to one of the local Czech UNESCO sites; 24/7 support. Students should budget an additional €200-500 depending on their spending habits for food (lunch, dinner) and other expenses. Public transport ticket is in additional costs.