Latin III Introduction

Lingua Latina

Latin is called a "dead language" because it is no longer actively spoken by a group of native speakers. Because of this, Latin is a language that is a bit like a historical monument: it is set in time and unchanging. By studying a language like Latin, students can gain insights into their own language through comparison, and learn about a different time period in human history.

Dates

In this course, we use the dating method based on Common Era. Thus, you will see the following dating abbreviations consistently throughout the course:

BCE = before common era (equivalent to B.C.)
CE = common era (equivalent to A.D.)

Latin III

In Latin I and II, much of the focus was on learning the basic components of the Latin language: grammar and vocabulary, along with learning basic reading skills. Latin III focuses on using those basic skills to read more complex Latin texts, written by Roman authors. The course will focus on a series of authors, and in each segment, the student will learn about how Roman authors worked and the differences in style and topic. Students will have the opportunity to read translated selections from each author as well, to expand their understanding of the context of the Latin they will be working with. The Latin III course, therefore, serves as a survey of Latin literature. Along the way, students will also find lessons that reinforce and expand on their understanding of grammar, and continue to grow their Latin vocabulary skills.

Focus of Latin III

The Latin III course is evenly divided in two parts, A and B. The focus of the A section is prose and prose authors, while the B section focuses on poetry and the writings of various Latin poets. If you have any questions, please be sure to contact your instructor.

Download: Latin III Standards