Latin

Latin education

The linguistic element of Latin courses offered in high schools or secondary schools, and in universities, is primarily geared toward an ability to translate Latin texts into modern languages, rather than using it in oral communication. As such, the skill of reading is heavily emphasized, whereas speaking and listening skills are barely touched upon. However, there is a growing movement, sometimes known as the Living Latin movement, whose supporters believe that Latin can, or should, be taught in the same way that modern "living" languages are taught, that is, as a means of both spoken and written communication. One of the most interesting aspects of such an approach is that it assists speculative insight into how many of the ancient authors spoke and incorporated sounds of the language stylistically; without understanding how the language is meant to be heard it is very difficult to identify patterns in Latin poetry. Institutions offering Living Latin instruction include the Vatican and the University of Kentucky. In Britain the Classical Association encourages this approach, and there has been something of a vogue for books describing the adventures of a mouse called Minimus. In the United States there is a thriving competitive organization for high school Latin students, the National Junior Classical League. Many would-be international auxiliary languages have been heavily influenced by Latin, and the moderately successful Interlingua considers itself to be the modernized and simplified version of the language (le latino moderne international e simplificate).

Related Topics:
Living Latin - Vatican - University of Kentucky - Classical Association - Minimus - United States - National Junior Classical League - International auxiliary languages - Interlingua

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Latin translations of Paddington Bear, Winnie the Pooh, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone and The Cat in the Hat (Cattus Petasatus) have also helped boost interest in the language.

Related Topics:
Paddington Bear - Winnie the Pooh - Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone - The Cat in the Hat

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