Classical Languages at Exeter

The Department of Classical Languages contains two charter departments of the Academy, Greek and Latin. Its offerings include Latin courses through the advanced levels, three years of Greek, as well as courses in etymology and classical mythology, literature and archaeology. For many students, reading works written more than 2,000 years ago by such authors as Vergil, Cicero, Plato and Homer stands out as the highlight of the language study. Through the study of such literary masterpieces, they accomplish the chief goal of the department: to develop in its students the ability to read significant works of Greek and Roman literature in the original language.

Students of Latin and Greek gain a background in the nature of language, in rhetoric and literary interpretation which enhances their study not only of English literature but of other rich European literary traditions. Usually this study translates into a heightened awareness of words and their origins, and, on a larger scale, of the origins of many artistic and philosophical concepts. Since studying the Classics gives evidence of serious study of a given body of knowledge that has proven exemplary in training the mind, colleges and universities look favorably upon applicants who present it as part of their applications, especially upon those who earn the Classical Diploma.

Latin

The study of classical Latin is an exploration of the language and literature of a culture that has profoundly affected virtually every aspect of western civilization for over 2,000 years. It is a key to the treasure trove of the ancient world--its mythology, literature, philosophy, and political history, as well as its art and architecture. Yet the study of Latin is also a key to understanding its direct descendants, such as French and Italian, and to a deeper understanding of English, since the vast majority of English words derive from Latin. Because classical Latin, furthermore, has remained unchanged for centuries, it allows us to learn a great deal about how language works.

Students who study Latin at Exeter have the opportunity to read the works of Julius Caesar, Cicero and the epic poet Vergil, as well as the lyric poetry of Catullus and Horace. After beginning to learn techniques of literary criticism at intermediate levels, students in advanced courses analyze and interpret some of the masterpieces of Roman literature. Those who complete the advanced levels have the chance to read the comedy of Plautus, the poetry of Lucretius and other important works.

Greek

Once they have studied Latin or another language, many students are excited at the chance to study classical Greek, which provides a door to one of the most interesting and important civilizations of the world.

In the civilization of ancient Greece lie the origins of much of the literature, art and thought that stand at the heart of western culture and have influenced other cultures as well. Beginning with Homer's Iliad and Odyssey in the archaic age, Greek writers produced works of astounding beauty and intrigue that have been studied and treasured by generations since, including the ancient Romans, the Arabs and the Europeans of the Renaissance. In many cases, it was Greek authors who created the very forms of literature we take for granted today: epic, comedy, tragedy, history and philosophy.

Students usually begin Greek after completing two or more years of Latin or another inflected language. This background enables them to learn Greek at a fairly rapid pace, completing all the basic forms and grammar, and even reading ancient Greek prose by the end of the first year. In subsequent years, students read some of the most important works of Greek literature that have come down to us. Beginning with two dialogues of Plato, normally the Crito and Apology, and parts of Homer's Iliad in the second year, students may continue in the third to read tragedies by Euripides and Sophocles, and one comedy of Aristophanes.

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