Studying Ancient Languages
Reading ancient literature in its original language will give you a deeper understanding of influential ancient texts, and basic insights into the structure of modern languages. Demonstrated proficiency in an ancient language can fulfill W&M’s foreign language proficiency. We offer courses in
We offer courses ranging from the introductory to the advanced.
- Introductory courses (GREK and LATN 101 and 102) generally enroll between 20 and 25 students. These courses are intended for students with little or no prior experience studying ancient languages. They include extensive student participation in the form of drills, composition exercises, and readings.
- Classes at the 200 level (GREK and LATN 201 and 202) build and reinforce translation skills. These generally enroll between twenty and twenty-five students. Students begin to read longer selections of texts in Greek or Latin, while continuing to work on mastery of grammar and vocabulary.
- Courses at the 300 or 400 level generally enroll up to twenty students. Students read works in the original language at a more advance pace. They also write papers or engage in other research projects that involve the reading of both ancient texts and modern scholarship. Examples of these courses include: LATN 235, 329, and 331; GREK 319, 329, and 352.
For those of you just getting started in your exploration of ancient language, we offer introductory courses (numbered 101-102). If you had experience with an ancient language before coming to W&M, please review the placement information for your language. Proper placement is vital for your success in any language class or make sure that your experience fulfills W&M’s foreign language proficiency requirement.
