A Level Latin

Course summary

In A-Level Latin we will build on our basis of GCSE grammar, understanding the multiplicity of uses of the subjunctive, the different translation of open and closed conditionals, and develop our learning of vocabulary and culture alike to a sophisticated understanding of both the Latin language and the ancient world in which it developed. We study the full uses of all the cases and their nuances along developing our knowledge of the full range of subordinate clauses and learning about sophisticated use of prose style. Many of the translations are based on the works of Livy and Ovid, thus students have the opportunity to gain an insight into Roman culture at its apex, and learn the mythology and history venerated by contemporary Romans and every generation since. In Latin literature, students will study one of the greatest epic poems created by any culture, studying the style and content of Virgil’s Aeneid Book 2, learning the immortal story of the fall of Troy from the perspective of the defeated Trojans, mixing action with pathos and searing symbols of the human condition, alongside understanding the construction and meter of Latin poetry, the passages are certainly essential reading for any aspiring arts student. We move from the world of myth to that of history by reading and analysing Tacitus’ Annals, learning about the Machiavellian world of the imperial household, the influence of powerful women and the plots and treachery that the splendour of the palace concealed. Just like at GCSE, the exam is based around a mixture of translation and comprehension tasks along with language analysis and essay style questions in the literature exam.