Medieval Latin: module 2

What is the course about?

In this course you will improve your fluency in reading Medieval Latin by translating original literary, religious, historical, and philosophical passages. Knowledge of classical Latin grammar is required.

This is a live online course. You will need:
- Internet connection. The classes work best with Chrome.
- A computer with microphone and camera is best (e.g. a PC/laptop/iMac/MacBook), or a tablet/iPad/smart phone/iPhone if you don't have a computer.
- Earphones/headphones/speakers.
We will contact you with joining instructions before your course starts.

What will we cover?

We shall translate and discuss a chronological selection of passages contained in ‘Medieval Latin’, by Harrington and Pucci. We also study a set-text, chosen by the class. In past years, we have read the Speculum Stultorum, a Medieval Latin satire and selections from Isidore of Seville’s Etymologies.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

- translate passages written in Medieval Latin;
- recognise its linguistic features in opposition to classical Latin
- understand the general historical background, eg the Sack of Rome, the Carolingian Renaissance, the Twelfth Century Renaissance.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

You should have studied Latin for 3 or 4 years or have an equivalent level of the language. The knowledge of classical Latin grammar is required. As this course is taught in English, you should be able to follow verbal and written instructions in English and also take part in class and group discussions on readings. Please look at the rest of the course outline carefully to decide if you may benefit from support with your English skills to help you take part fully in this class.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

Whole class work; translation at a gentle pace; tutor posing questions and answering questions raised by the students. General discussion on language, style, main topics, etc. Students will be asked to prepare a passage for each class. Homework: about 2-3 hours per week.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

You must have access to the second edition of ‘Medieval Latin’. Edited by K P Harrington. Revised by Joseph Pucci. With a grammatical introduction by Alison Goddard Elliott. University of Chicago Press 1997 (ISBN 0-226-31713-7). There is a free PDF on-line. Information about other texts will be available on Google Classroom.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Medieval Latin: module 3.