URB: Lesson - Latin Legacy in the Arts and Architecture

Latin Legacy in the Arts and Architecture

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The greatness of Rome and Greco-Roman civilization has inspired artists and artisans for centuries. Ancient Greek and Roman artists and poets inspired the modern arts: visual arts, architecture, literature and film. Let's examine a few examples of the influence of Latin on our daily lives. This lesson will further explain how and why Roman civilization has had such a lasting effect on European culture and history. Because of the connection between the United States and Europe (its history as a colonizer), that effect has carried over into our own history and culture. 

Artists from Michelangelo to Jacques-Louis David have created art inspired by Greco-Roman styles and techniques. An entire period of art called Neoclassicism highlights a movement in the visual arts, literature, theater, music and architecture which draws inspiration from art and culture of Ancient Greece and Rome. Consider some of these famous examples of inspired art and architecture.

Pictured above: the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, France.

Pictured above: The Oath of the Horatii by Jacques-Louis David.

Literature and Film

The ancient world continues to provide inspiration for books and film in modern day. Classic stories inspire authors to bring to life the culture and customs of the ancient world. Modern fascinations rooted in classical mythologies and histories reflect universal themes of action, intrigue and love.

Consider the examples below. Can you think of other modern examples of film and literature inspired by Greco-Roman culture?

Everyday Abbreviations and Common Phrases

Latin was once the official academic language in Europe. Scholars began using abbreviations for common Latin phrases. Many are still used today.

Abbreviations and Helpful Phrases from Latin

Latin Phrases, part 1	Latin Phrases, part 2	Latin Phrases, part 3
A.B./B.A. Artium Baccalaureus Bachelor of Arts degree A.D. anno domini in the year of the Lord (equivalent to CE) A.M. ante meridiem morning, before noon ad infinitum to infinitive, endless ad lib. ad libitum at one's pleasure ad val. ad valorem according to the value Ag argentum silver A.U.C. ab urbe condita from the founding of the city (Rome) B.S. Baccalaureus Scientiae Bachelor of Science (degree) Cf. confer bring together, compare	cum laude with praise; honors e.g. exempli gratia for example, for instance et al. et alia/et alii and other things/people etc. et cetera and the rest i.e. id est that is ibid. ibidem in the same place (book, etc.) id. idem the same (person) LL.D. Legum Doctor Doctor of Law degree magna cum laude with great praise; high honors N.B. nota bene note well pay attention	op. cit. opere citato in the same article/book as mentioned before P.M. post meridiem afternoon P.S. post scriptum after what has been written R.I.P. requiescat in pace rest in peach s.o.s. si opus sit if there is a need; if necessary SPQR Senatus Populusque Romanus The senate and people of Rome summa cum laude with highest praise; highest honors terra firma solid ground terra incognita unknown/unexplored land vs. or v. versus against

Practice Activity