This course is to study Classical Latin grammar. Classical Latin had been used in the Roman Empire. All the present European languages, except Finish and Hungarian, originated from Latin. Therefore, studying Classical Latin will deepen the understanding of the present European languages. At the time of the Golden Age of Roman literature, around 100BC to 100AD, many works were produced by great writers and poets such as Cicero, Virgil, Ovid, Caesar and Livy. Medieval Latin had been used for a long time in the world of Christianity in Europe, and is still used in Roman Catholic Church. As the Latin language has not changed much through time, Classical and Medieval Latin are not so different. We will learn Classical Latin in our class, but it will enable you to read Medieval Latin and Christian texts as well. Since Latin was also used as the common language of science and it appears in scientific terms, it will be very useful for scientists to learn the Latin language.
By studying Classical Latin, students will be able read Latin orignal texts dilectly, rather than in translations. They will notice how many important and valuable messages are contained in these texts. Also they will be surprised at how vivid the messages are; they have not become obsolete, but keep on having fresh impact still now, even though they were written more than 2000 years ago.
Classical Latin
✔ Specialist skills | ✔ Intercultural skills | ✔ Communication skills | ✔ Critical thinking skills | Practical and/or problem-solving skills |
Gramatical explanations are given at class, and exercises are required as homework assignments.
Course schedule | Required learning | |
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Class 1 | Infinitives, subjunctive present | Memorize the conjugation of subjunctive present. |
Class 2 | Indefinite pronouns, subjunctive imperfect | Memorize the conjugation of subjunctive imperfect. |
Class 3 | Gerundum, Gerundivum | Understand gerundum, and gerundivum |
Class 4 | Subjunctive perfect, Conjunctions | Memorize the conjugation of subjunctive perfect, and understand conjunctions |
Class 5 | Purpose clauses | Understand purpose clauses. |
Class 6 | Comparatives | Understand comparatives. |
Class 7 | Indirect speeches | Understand indirect speeches. |
Class 8 | Examination |
To enhance effective learning, students are encouraged to spend approximately 100 minutes preparing for class and another 100 minutes reviewing class content afterwards (including assignments) for each class.
They should do so by referring to textbooks and other course material.
C. Matsudaira and K. Kunihara, Shin-ratenn bunpou, Toyoshuppan, 1997.
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Examination (70%), homework assignments (30%)
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