BA Classical Studies

This course-unit takes you on from CAHE30211 Advanced Latin 2 to the next level. It involves (a) the accurate translation and linguistic comprehension of unseen texts (in verse and in prose); (b) the development of more advanced skills relating to the reading of Latin; (c) practice in unprepared translation from English into Latin.

To continue the study of Latin language acquired at CAHE 30211 Advanced Latin 2, developing skills of reading a wider range of authors (in prose and verse), further consolidating knowledge and understanding of vocabulary and grammar, and developing active knowledge of the language, through translation both into and out of Latin. 

• 1 x 1 hour set text class per week;
• 1 x 1 hour grammar class per fortnight;
• 1 dedicated consultation hour per week;
• Blackboard: course documentation will be available on blackboard, as will unseens and further background materials such as instructions on basic scansion.

One set text class per week. One grammar class per fortnight, in which the main concentration will be on unseen translation from Latin and translation into Latin. Fortnightly written homework, alternating between translation into Latin and unseen translation, on which written formative feedback will be given.

Students will have access to online interactive tests for vocabulary, morphology, and syntax, designed for Intensive Latin but strongly encouraged for students of Advanced Latin.

By the end of this course students will have/be able to:  

• Read a wide range of passages from Latin authors,both prose and verse;  
• demonstrate a deeper understanding of Latin grammar;  
• increased their engagement with Latin texts, by honing their knowledge of scansion, the rules of Latin pronunciation, and related issues in the language;
• increased knowledge of the Latin canon. 

By the end of this course students will have:  

• further developed their ability in prose composition, translating both sentences and continuous passages of English into idiomatic Latin;  
• demonstrate increased capacity to translate unseen passages of Latin into English, with reduced assistance.  

By the end of this course students will have/ be able to:

• show fast and skilful use of language aids, such as dictionaries and grammars.

By the end of this course students will have:

• self-discipline;
• organisation;
• developed problem solving skills.

A. Leigh (2019) Latin Prose Composition: A Guide from GCSE to A Level and Beyond, Bloomsbury

Other materials will be provided on the VLN.