Sanskrit 3 is an Introductory-Intermediate level course that supports students through the transition from textbook-based study of grammar and syntax to critical engagement with original Sanskrit texts. The first part of this course focuses on the advanced grammatical constructions that are necessary for a comprehensive understanding of the Sanskrit language at an Intermediate level. These forms are studied firstly through the medium of the textbook, formal explanations, and practice texts, but are subsequently observed and discussed in the context of primary readings drawn from the story-telling tradition (katha). In the second part of this course, our textbook-based study is replaced with original readings from Sanskrit epics (itihasa). These readings advance students' understanding of the literary and compositional features of Sanskrit prose and verse texts and introduce the historical knowledge required to produce independent translations with cultural awareness. While focusing on colourful narratives and intriguing characters, this course guides students through the use of reference materials, such as Sanskrit grammars and dictionaries, supports the development of analytical skills that promote confidence in reading, and encourages critical explanation of Sanskrit texts in context.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
- Read original verse and prose narrative texts smoothly and accurately.
- Examine the vocabulary of the text in hand through the correct use of a Sanskrit-English dictionary.
- Demonstrate a working ability in using grammatical reference texts through the production of textual analyses at an Intermediate level.
- Critically identify and discuss a range of grammatical, compositional, and literary characteristics of primary texts in relation to historical and cultural context.
- Evaluate and produce critical English translations appropriate to a primary text's compositional features and cultural references.
Other Information
On successful completion of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to engage at an Intermediate level of Sanskrit.
Students with native speaker proficiency (may include cognate languages and dialects) must review the language proficiency assessment site and contact the CAP Student Centre for appropriate enrolment advice. Students with previous “language experience or exposure” are required to undertake a language proficiency assessment to ensure enrolment at the most appropriate level.
Relevant past experience includes:
- Previous study of the language (both formal and informal, for example but not limited to, at school, or, home, or through online activities, etc.)
- Being exposed to the language in childhood via a family member or friend
- Travel or living in a country where the language is spoken
- The language being spoken in your home (even if you do not speak it yourself)
Students who are not sure if they need to undertake a language proficiency assessment should seek advice from the course or language convenor. Students who intentionally misrepresent their language proficiency level may be investigated under the Academic Integrity Rule 2021 as having failed to comply with assessment directions and having sought unfair advantage. This may results in a penalty such as reduced grades or failure of the course.
Students are not permitted to enrol in a language course below one that they have already successfully completed, except with permission of the language and/or course convenor.
Indicative Assessment
- Short translation assignment 1 (1500 words) (30) [LO 1,2,3,4,5]
- Short translation assignment 2 (1500 words) (30) [LO 1,2,3,4,5]
- Take-home translation exam (2000 words) (40) [LO 1,2,3,4,5]
The ANU uses Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. While the use of Turnitin is not mandatory, the ANU highly recommends Turnitin is used by both teaching staff and students. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the ANU Online website.
Workload
This unit is conducted on the 'flipped classroom' model. Students are expected to complete certain set tasks before attending class each week. A total of 10 hours' work per week is expected as follows:
- 4 hours, before class, preparing materials for in-class activities
- 3 hours attending on-campus or online classes
- 3 hours developing and completing assessments and/or undertaking revision activities based on individual feedback from the teacher
The total workload for the course is 130 hours over 12 weeks of class and the examination period.
Requisite and Incompatibility
Prescribed Texts
Lanman, C. R., A Sanskrit Reader
Macdonnell, A., A Sanskrit Grammar for Students
Monier-Williams, M., Sanskrit-English Dictionary
Whitney, C. R. Sanskrit Grammar
Fees
Tuition fees are for the academic year indicated at the top of the page.
Commonwealth Support (CSP) Students
If you have been offered a Commonwealth supported place, your fees are set by the Australian Government for each course. At ANU 1 EFTSL is 48 units (normally 8 x 6-unit courses). More information about your student contribution amount for each course at Fees.
- Student Contribution Band:
- 1
- Unit value:
- 6 units
If you are a domestic graduate coursework student with a Domestic Tuition Fee (DTF) place or international student you will be required to pay course tuition fees (see below). Course tuition fees are indexed annually. Further information for domestic and international students about tuition and other fees can be found at Fees.
Where there is a unit range displayed for this course, not all unit options below may be available.
| Units | EFTSL |
|---|---|
| 6.00 | 0.12500 |
Course fees
- Domestic fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2026 | $4500 |
- International fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2026 | $5820 |
Offerings, Dates and Class Summary Links
ANU utilises MyTimetable to enable students to view the timetable for their enrolled courses, browse, then self-allocate to small teaching activities / tutorials so they can better plan their time. Find out more on the Timetable webpage.
Class summaries, if available, can be accessed by clicking on the View link for the relevant class number.
First Semester
| Class number | Class start date | Last day to enrol | Census date | Class end date | Mode Of Delivery | Class Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ANU Online | ||||||
| 2321 | 23 Feb 2026 | 02 Mar 2026 | 31 Mar 2026 | 29 May 2026 | Online | N/A |
| OUA Online | ||||||
| 3067 | 23 Feb 2026 | 02 Mar 2026 | 31 Mar 2026 | 29 May 2026 | Online | N/A |