Newcastle University

Pre Requisite Comment

A-level Latin or equivalent (note that advice on the appropriate level is given in induction week on the basis of a diagnostic test), or CLA1001 and 1002 (or equivalent)

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

The module aims to:
1. Develop and consolidate knowledge of Latin grammar, vocabulary and style.
2. Train students in the detailed study of Latin verse and/or prose texts, at the level appropriate to the "post-beginners" / "post-A-level" knowledge of the language which they have acquired or are acquiring.

The overall aim of both intermediate modules is to allow you to engage with what Latin authors wrote in their own words, and to develop your ability of translating and analysing Latin literary texts in the original. CLA1011, taught in the first half of the year, continues the training offered in CLA1002, adding to your knowledge of classical Latin vocabulary and grammar and consolidating your translation skills. At the same time, you will continue to practice skills of literary analysis. You will be introduced to the basic instruments of philological analysis (e.g., lexica, grammar books, commentaries etc.), as well as to critical engagement with secondary literature.

Outline Of Syllabus

The module begins by reviewing the basics of elementary Latin grammar and completing what remains to be covered in the textbook from where CLA1002 left off in the previous academic year. A significant proportion of the module will be devoted to reading selections from Virgil's Aeneid in Latin, with a focus on building confidence in both translation and literary analysis skills. One hour each week is devoted to a student-led ‘Latin in Action’ session: this may involve translation or composition exercises; comparison of published translations; stylistic analysis; scansion of passages of verse; critical evaluation of key secondary literature.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

1. To further develop and consolidate knowledge of the essentials of Latin grammar
2. To further build vocabulary
3. To gain an awareness of the common stylistic features of Latin texts
4. To acquire a good familiarity with the outline of Vergil’s Aeneid, and of the particular book/selections of that work studied.

Intended Skill Outcomes

1. To further develop skills in understanding, analysing and translating Latin texts (seen and unseen)
2. To successfully use a range of resources (traditional and digital) for the study of Latin texts
3. To find, read, and critically evaluate relevant secondary literature
4. To apply learned knowledge and skills (selectively, where appropriate) in the completion of the module’s different assessment components.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Language classes, with a large element of teacher-student interaction, are the best way to combine the imparting of (grammatical and other) knowledge with the hands-on training in linguistic and literary skills.


The small classes introduce, explain, demonstrate and give students the opportunity to apply, under guidance,
• the further knowledge of the Latin language; and
• the approach to analysing Latin literary texts which the module aims to instil.

In private study, students:
• consolidate knowledge imparted in the taught classes,
• further practise applying that knowledge to set tasks of language and literary analysis and of translation, and
• learn to use their language skills to think in analytical and constructive ways about original Latin texts.

If the Covid-related guidance in place during the semester requires us to move teaching on-line, the timetabled sessions will be retained as synchronous Zoom sessions.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

Summative assessments (written exercise; take home exam) are designed to test students' understanding and knowledge of Latin grammar and the prescribed set text, as well as skills of translation and analysis.

Formative assessments (homework exercises in grammar and translation) are designed to review, revise, and consolidate key points of grammar and translation skills.

This module cannot be made available to Study-abroad, non-Erasmus exchange and Loyola students under any circumstances.

All Erasmus students in Newcastle University are expected to do the same assessment as students registered for a degree.

General Notes

N/A