The Latin Language

This Rome trip showed me how useful Latin really is. We we’re able to translate signs, inscriptions and this enabled us to learn a lot more about the history than many other tourists.

Latin is fascinating as there are many English words derived from it, therefore we can see how our language developed. But we can also see how our language changed, for example we no longer have cases and we have practically ceased to use the subjunctive mood.

But why else should students learn Latin? It is a fascinating subject which allows students to read classical literature, allowing them to learn about Roman customs. For example, Ovid’s poem 3.2 (as mentioned in previous post) was a ‘set’ poem for AS-level Latin. This one poem taught me so much about the races: about seating arrangements, the chariot races and Roman Gods and Goddesses. But not only did it do this, but the way Ovid wrote the poem encouraged me to explore these themes further and learn more.

Also, Latin is a very logical subject. At the end of the day, with many school subjects, if you learn the content, you should do well in an exam, however even if someone learns the grammar and vocabulary, people still need to approach texts with ingenuity and a firm basis of their own language. In fact, studying Latin does teach people about their own language two as it improves the English vocabulary greatly, especially about analysing texts.

Learning Latin is also a different approach to languages. When learning modern languages, there is a huge focus on speaking, which people may not like. Since Latin is based more on translations and interpretations rather than innovative responses, it widens the audience of language learners.

To conclude, although the study of Latin may not directly be used in a students’ future, it will improve their native language and will help to create an inquisitive and “intellectually rigorous kid”¹.

 

As William Harris wrote:

"From another point of view, the study of Latin does foster precision in the use of words. Since one reads Latin closely and carefully, often word by word, this focuses the student's mind on individual words and their usage. It has been noticed that people who have studied Latin in school usually write quite good English prose. There may be a certain amount of stylistic imitation involved, but more important is the habit of reading closely and following important texts with accuracy."

As quoted from the National Review:

"I will say at once, quite firmly, that the best grounding for education is the Latin grammar. I say this not because Latin is traditional and medieval, but simply because even a rudimentary knowledge of Latin cuts down the labor and pains of learning almost any other subject by at least 50 percent."

¹Sourced from: http://www.theguardian.com/culture/charlottehigginsblog/2009/may/24/latin-in-schools (Accessed 23/11/2013)