Latin

Course summary

The course offers an equal balance of language work and reading original Latin literature. In language preparation, we cover the same constructions as those studied at GCSE, with some additions and complexities. For the literature side, we study the famous speeches of Cicero, and in verse we read the powerful and moving poetry of Virgil’s Aeneid and the intriguing works of Ovid’s poetry. Students who particularly enjoyed their literary studies at GCSE and those with a good grasp of basic Latin grammar and vocabulary are highly encouraged to continue their study of Latin into the Sixth Form. Topics include both Latin Language and Literature, with cultural and historical context. Language builds on GCSE Latin grammar and vocabulary, developing the ability to translate original Latin prose and verse authors. In Literature we study two set texts: for verse, Virgil’s Aeneid Book 2, and for prose, Cicero’s Pro Caelio.