Introduction to Classical Latin Course

Discover the language that shaped the foundation of Western civilisation with our Latin short courses online!

Step into the world of Ancient Rome and begin learning the language behind some of history’s most influential texts, ideas and traditions. This course offers a rich and engaging introduction to Classical Latin, designed for beginners and anyone curious about language, history and culture.

Latin remains a cornerstone of Western intellectual history, serving as the language of Caesar, Cicero and Virgil. Long after the fall of the Roman Empire, it continued as the shared language of diplomacy, science and scholarship across Europe for centuries. Its influence can still be seen today in modern Romance languages such as French and Italian, as well as in English vocabulary, particularly in fields such as law, medicine and academia.

In this course, you’ll learn the foundations of Latin through the stories of Lucius Caecilius Iucundus and his household in Pompeii, shortly before the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. Through these narratives, you’ll gradually build your understanding of grammar, vocabulary and sentence structure while gaining insight into everyday life in Ancient Rome.

Whether you’re interested in literature, philosophy, history or the origins of language itself, this course offers a thoughtful and rewarding introduction to Classical Latin.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this Introduction to Classical Latin course, you will have explored concepts and techniques such as:

• Reading and understanding basic passages in Classical Latin
• Translating simple sentences between Latin and English
• Recognising common verbs, nouns and adjectives
• Understanding basic Latin sentence structure
• Exploring key aspects of Ancient Roman culture and society

Course content

What will be covered in this Introduction to Classical Latin course?

During the course, participants will work with concepts, techniques and ideas that may include:

• Introduction to the Latin language and its historical context
• Basic sentence patterns and structure
• First and second declension nouns (masculine, feminine and neuter)
• Agreement of adjectives
• Verbs across the four conjugations (singular and plural)
• Present tense forms across all persons
• Infinitives and common verb constructions
• The third declension and selected irregular forms
• Imperatives and prepositions
• The genitive case (“of”)
• Neuter nouns and adjectives

Students will also have the opportunity to review their progress through short exercises and guided activities throughout the course.

Content may vary slightly depending on class pace, participant interests, and instructor approach.

Intended audience

Who is this Introduction to Classical Latin course for?

This course is ideal for learners who:

• Are interested in Roman history, literature or philosophy
• Want to understand the roots of Western languages
• Enjoy analytical or language-based learning
• Are considering studies in Ancient History or Classical Studies
• Are curious about how language connects culture, history and ideas

Course venue

Online via Zoom

Zoom access details will be provided with your enrolment confirmation.

Requirements:

• A device with a stable internet connection

Course materials

What to bring to class

• Textbook (see below)
• Notebook and pen
• A willingness to engage and learn

Learning Resources

Please purchase the following textbook, which will be used throughout the course:

Cambridge Latin Course: Book 1 (5th Edition)
Cambridge University Press, 2022
ISBN-13: 978-1009162647

This textbook is widely available from major booksellers.

Additional information

Please note the following:

• Regular attendance and participation are recommended for the best learning experience
• Some individual study outside of class may be required from Session 2 onwards

What's Next?

After completing this course, you may wish to continue your learning with our Classical Latin: Beginners Level 2 course, where you’ll expand your understanding of Latin grammar and engage with more complex texts while continuing your journey into the language and culture of Ancient Rome.