Why do we study Latin? Latin has often been derided as a dead language, but nothing could be further from the truth. Even a cursory study of Latin will reveal that our world is permeated with the influences of Latin in both language and culture. It is the central component of a classical, Christian education, and it assists in the development of students’ academic and professional skills. Latin also grows character.
The study of Latin has been a hallmark of a superior education for countless generations. It is at the foundation of Western Civilization and provides a strong foundation for understanding history, literature, science, philosophy, and mathematics. The works of Caesar, Virgil, Ovid, Horace, Cicero, and Livy teach students about the rich cultural heritage we have been given courtesy of the Romans. Through reading these texts, students begin to understand the underpinnings of our own form of government which is based on that of the Roman republic. It exposes them to religious and social mores that still impact society today. During the Middle Ages, the riches of classical authors were rediscovered, and the Church found a wealth of beauty, truth, and goodness which have been preserved for us to rediscover today.
Latin demands rigor. In order to be successful, one must be disciplined, as Latin does not give up its treasures easily. Latin is a rigorous and highly inflected language which requires students to think, analyze, and finally, arrive at meaning. Studying and memorizing Latin’s declensions, conjugations, and syntax develops an understanding of its structure and logic. It also helps students to learn not only Latin grammar but also English grammar, which in turn improves speaking and writing skills. Discipline, along with dedication and perseverance are qualities which translate to success not only in academics but in life. All students of Latin will report that the grammar of the language requires meticulous attention to detail and an ability to work diligently to arrive at meaning. These exercises develop the quality of resilience which serves students throughout their lives. Therefore, the study of Latin naturally fosters critical thinking skills, intellectual ability, and depth of character.
Through Latin, we learn our own language more thoroughly, and we see its impact on modern languages. In fact, it is the basis of all of the Romance languages and sixty percent of our own English language. In the terminology we find in math, technology, law, and science, the percentage far exceeds this, as the lion’s share have been borrowed directly from Latin.
Latin students also find themselves continually encountering the etymology of words, and that provides them with a rich vocabulary as well as the ability to decode words which they have never seen before. This exposure assists in the reading of the complex texts encountered in high school and beyond. Studies have shown that Latin students typically score far better on standardized tests like the CLT, SAT, and ACT than those who do not study Latin. Moreover, the study of Latin confers cognitive benefits such as a keen attention to detail, analysis, and problem-solving. Students who hope to study science, medicine, law, history, theology, or English will find that they have laid an excellent foundation and are far better equipped for understanding the language of the professions that God leads them to.
The study of Latin aids in the development of both literary and rhetorical abilities. Students will find that arriving upon just the right expression or argument is aided by a close study of Latin because they are required to recognize and analyze the rhetorical devices used by Latin authors and orators. As such, they are able to employ these forms of persuasion and argumentation in their own speeches and writings. Further, having encountered excellent literary skills, their own abilities become much sharper. We must never fail to remember that Latin authors, poets, and orators have wrestled with and written extensively about the human condition and have written eloquently about it, thereby enriching the minds and lives of every reader who is fortunate enough to study them.
Once students master the grammar Latin, they are able to read these impactful historical texts in their original language and discover the beauty of the text for themselves. This is key to a liberal education; that is an education best suited to creating a free person who is has the capacity to think for himself or herself. A thorough education in Latin enables students to enter into the great discussions of Western civilization and communicate a biblical worldview in a logical and meaningful way.
Latin is the cornerstone of a classical, Christian education. As such, no one should be deprived of studying it or reaping its many benefits.