This is an introduction to Latin, that language spoken and written first by the pre-Roman Latin peoples of central Italy, then of the Romans (Early, Classical and Late Latin c. 4th century BC through the 4th AD), and finally philosophers, scientists, theologians, humanists, lawyers, and literary figures from 476 CE - c.1700 (Medieval and Renaissance Latin).  Latin along with Greek and Sanskrit has been one of the most enduring of languages ever studied, spoken and written.  The Romance languages (French, Italian, Portuguese, Romanian, and Spanish) all derive from Latin, while English vocabulary and German grammar arguably have much more in common with Latin than with each other.  They are all an evolved form of the original language. Knowledge of classical Latin gives access to the documentation and literature of the other periods as well as the only key to understanding modern languages of Western Civilization.  Latin's influence in the development of philosophy, language, law, the natural sciences, religion, and political theory is unavoidable.  

The course is aimed at:

- Developing the basics for a reading knowledge of classical Latin;
- Learning vocabulary derived from Latin in English (and to a lesser extent in Italian, Spanish, and French);
- Considering the historical, social and intellectual contexts of the Roman world in which Latin was the medium of expression;
- Examining linguistic features of Latin grammar and vocabulary which may apply to other language structures and development;
- Preparing the student with the basics and confidence to continue studying Latin either formally or informally.

At the end of the course, you should be able to read simple narratives in Latin, have learned many English (Italian, Spanish, French) cognates, recognize the Latin origins of frequent abbreviations in Latin, and be knowledgeable in the outlines of the history, social life and developments of the Roman world.  Most importantly, the student will be thoroughly confident throughout one's whole life when confronted by Latin with the indispensible aid of a Latin lexicon (i.e. dictionary).  A good Latin dictionary (there are few) is necessary for this course (consult the required reading and textbook section).

Assessment Guidelines for assigning main letter grades: A, B, C, D, and F.

A:  Work of this quality directly addresses the question or problem raised and provides a coherent argument displaying an extensive knowledge of relevant information or content. This type of work demonstrates the ability to critically evaluate concepts and theory and has an element of novelty and originality. There is clear evidence of a significant amount of reading beyond that required for the course.

B:  This is highly competent level of performance and directly addresses the question or problem raised.

There is a demonstration of some ability to critically evaluate theory and concepts and relate them to practice. Discussions reflect the student’s own arguments and are not simply a repetition of standard lecture and reference material. The work does not suffer from any major errors or omissions and provides evidence of reading beyond the required assignments.

C:  This is an acceptable level of performance and provides answers that are clear but limited, reflecting the information offered in the lectures and reference readings.

D:  This level of performances demonstrates that the student lacks a coherent grasp of the material.

Important information is omitted and irrelevant points included.In effect, the student has barely done enough to persuade the instructor that s/he should not fail.

F: This work fails to show any knowledge or understanding of the issues raised in the question. Most of the material in the answer is irrelevant.

Attendance is mandatory.  

“A student absent from a class meeting in which a final examination, mid-term or other major examination has been scheduled will be officially excused only if the student:
 
1. notifies the Office of the Dean of Academic Affairs of his/her inability to attend before the beginning of the class meeting for which the examination is scheduled; 

2. subsequently presents to the Dean documented evidence of a serious difficulty preventing attendance. Absences due to illness, hospitalization, death in the family or other situations of similar gravity will normally be excused. Absences due to travel difficulties, misunderstanding on the part of the student or personal convenience will not be excused.” 

The same policy as stated above will apply for those needing to make up other assignments in the course, e.g. unseens.

More than one absence will not allow you to keep the track with the many new features taught during every session. Regular participation is a main prerequisite for gaining understanding of newly presented grammatical issues.

Everyone should take responsibility for each absence which can occur only in serious occasions. An extra written assignment is programmed for more than two absences.