Classics

Latin I

An introduction to the basics of Latin grammar, syntax, and vocabulary. All declensions, conjugations, and elementary constructions are presented and are mastered through Latin-to-English and English-to-Latin exercises. Some attention is given to the study of mythology and Roman culture.

Greek I

An introduction to the basics of Homeric Greek. During the second semester students translate selections from Homer’s Odyssey. Some attention is given to the study of ancient Greek civilization.

Latin II

Consists of a thorough review of Latin I and the mastery of intermediate Latin grammar. Reading skills are developed through the translation of mythological stories and excerpts from Latin literature. During the second semester students translate selections from Caesar’s Gallic Wars.

Greek II

Consists of a thorough review of Greek I and mastery of intermediate Homeric grammar. Students read extensively from Homer’s Odyssey.

Latin III

Consists of a thorough review of Latin II and the mastery of advanced Latin grammar. Readings are taken from the works of Cicero and Ovid. The scansion of Ovid’s dactylic hexameter is introduced.

Greek III

Marks the transition from Homeric poetry studied in Greek I and II to Greek prose authors. All aspects of standard classical Greek grammar are presented. Reading selections are taken from the Histories of Herodotus.

Latin IV

Selections from Books I, II, IV, and VI of Vergil’s Aeneid are studied in Latin. Other parts of the epic are read in translation.

Latin IV: Vergil AP

A study of Vergil’s Aeneid and Caesar’s Gallic Wars. The selections read are the passages prescribed by the Advanced Placement syllabus.

Greek IV

The study of Greek tragedy. Students translate the Medea of Euripides and read five other tragedies in translation. During the final month of the course, students read selections from the Greek lyric poets.

Latin V

A study of the poetry of Catullus (fall semester) and Horace (spring semester). Advanced Latin poetics and metrics form an integral part of the course. Either semester may be elected separately.