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WHY LEARNING LATIN?
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1. To improve English vocabulary Approximately 67% of all English words have their origin in the Latin language. The English language even contains a large number of actual Latin words which have not changed (in meaning or spelling) since the time of the Romans. There are at least 333 of these words! Here is a sampling: superior census dictum inferior actor animal error exterior fungus genus hiatus honor minus minimum orator par plus senior terminus victor dictator gladiator insomnia rumor alibi maximum simulacrum 2. As a base to learn other European languages Up to 80% of all words in in French, Spanish, Italian, & Portuguese (the ROMANce languages) come from Latin. 3. To prepare oneself in a professional field. LAW: Much of Western legal system has its roots in ancient Rome. Legal vocabulary is steeped in Latin. Such terms as habeas corpus, nolo contendere, prima facie, corpus delicti and amicus curiae are a part of the everyday Latin vocabulary of practicing lawyers. MEDICINE: The Language of medicine in the West for over a thousand years was Latin. PHARMACY: The pharmacist deals with Latin terms and phrases on a daily basis. JOURNALISM: The ability to communicate with an extensive vocabulary and a firm command of grammar is essential for success in the field of journalism. Study in Latin significantly improves these all-important skills. ARCHAEOLOGY: For those who would like to work in the fascinating field of archaeology and specialize in Greece or Rome, a reading knowledge of Latin is a must! LINGUISTICS: Since Latin has influenced so many other languages, it's importance is clear for this field. ANCIENT HISTORY: Latin is necessary in using primary sources for Western ancient history. PHILOSOPHY, ART, LITERATURE, DRAMA: In philosophy, literature, music, painting, sculpture and drama there are countless references to the worlds of ancient Greece and Rome. The excellent example of Professor Hu Shiu Ying |