Latin Language and Literature Programme
The Latin Language and Literature Programme started in September 2024 and has been developed over the last year specifically for adults who already have experience of other languages. The central purpose of the course is to give students a clear understanding of the grammar and syntax of Latin so that they will be able, with guidance and support, to read original Latin texts. It has five core elements:
Understanding of the language: Latin is a language that makes meaning by word ending, rather than word order, so that understanding of that design and knowledge of the endings are absolutely vital.
Practice: understanding of the grammar – and development of vocabulary – are reinforced by regular and specific practice of the key aspects of the language through the translation of sentences and continuous passages.
Comparison with other languages: because the students bring with them knowledge and understanding of other languages, the course uses that knowledge to clarify the design of Latin, and to bring out the similarities and differences between languages. The lessons also encourage thinking about etymology and English’s dependence on Latinate words.
Reading of Latin texts: our intention is to work together to read a wide range of texts, not only from the ancient world but also from the Renaissance. So, even in the first year, the students have read the poetry of Virgil and Pope Pius II and a number of funeral inscriptions. In the coming year, we intend to read key passages from Virgil’s Aeneid, Livy’s History of Rome, Cicero, Catullus, Horace, Ovid, Erasmus and Thomas More’s Utopia.
The exploration of the influence of Latin on western culture: Roman literature and art had a massive influence on western culture: it is Virgil who leads Dante through the Inferno to Paradise and it is Ovid who provides the subject matter for so much Renaissance art. An important part of the course is to explore the relationship between Latin texts and the world of the Renaissance and beyond.
The course has been devised by John Claughton, former Chief Master of King Edward’s School, Birmingham and former Master at Eton College. Although we are already ‘in medias res’, a potential student who has done even a small amount of Latin previously could join in with the course, and there will be the opportunity for additional support for students keen to participate. And the very design of the classes is based on mutual support and shared progress, so it should not be too daunting even for a newcomer.
Day & Time
Sundays 6:30pm-7:45pm
Format
On-Campus | Online | Blended Learning
Registration: Enrolment Open
Lecturer: John Claughton