The term “premodern” implies that this language stands in a historically foundational or, in certain cases, diachronic relationship to one of the other languages. Foundational languages would include classical Latin and Greek, biblical Hebrew, classical Arabic, Chinese, Armenian and Sanskrit. Normally this language is not simply the “Old” form of a modern language which is studied in Old, Middle or Medieval, and Modern forms. In the event of uncertainty, candidates and/or their advisors should consult the DGS. There are inevitably languages which are difficult to classify in this system. A case in point is classical Japanese. The Department has considered this case twice and has decided both times that although classical Japanese differs substantially from modern Japanese, the distinction is closer to a “medieval vs. Modern” distinction that could be found in other traditions (even English, since Old English differs sharply from Modern English). As a result, the Department has resolved that the standard foundational language for Japanese is classical Chinese; but the requirement can be satisfied by the ability to read kambun.
The term “cross-cultural” implies that this language is from another linguistic-cultural group than the others. Usually a candidate working primarily on European languages and literatures, and choosing not to study a premodern language, would need to study a language such as Chinese or Arabic to meet this requirement. Normally, English will not count as a cross-cultural language.