Latin: One Language, Many Cultures

Why should I take this Trinity Elective?

Latin was a living language for over a millennium, shaping Western European culture, science, law, and philosophy. It was once the language of power, but also one of everyday expression. Until the early modern period, Latin served as the primary medium of intellectual exchange in the humanities and sciences.

Studying Latin will enhance your English vocabulary, strengthen your understanding of European languages, and deepen your appreciation for historical and cultural texts. It will also allow you to engage critically with issues such as colonialism, cultural exchange, and linguistic imperialism, offering valuable insights across disciplines, from the humanities to STEM fields. If you’re curious about how language shapes thought, identity, and global history, this elective is for you!

Please note: This module is designed for students with no prior experience in Latin.

What will I learn?

• You will gain foundational knowledge of Latin and its original cultural context.
• You will discover how Latin influences English and other European languages.
• You will learn how to recognise Latin’s impact on disciplinary terminology, from law to health sciences.
• You will explore topics such as linguistic imperialism, cultural adaptation, and historical continuity.

What will I do?

• Attend lectures and practical sessions exploring Latin’s structure and cultural significance.
• Engage with original Latin texts through guided analysis.
• Participate in small group sessions to practice Latin in an interactive way.
• Use online resource to support independent learning.
• Develop a team research project on a key Latin word, analyzing its meaning across different disciplines and historical periods.

How will this be delivered?

• 22 hours of face-to-face lectures and language practice.
• 40 hours of independent study using online resources, including www.tabella.ie (Trinity’s Latin learning platform).
• 6 hours of small group tutorials.
• 25 hours of team-based research and project work.

How will this be assessed?

• 10% Participation and online discussions.
• 50% In-class language tests (20% mid-term + 30% later in the term).
• 40% Team project on a key Latin word or concept, including:
  • 15% Individual reflection.
  • 25% Collective research and presentation.

Who can take this Trinity Elective?

This module is open to all eligible students except:

• Students enrolled in a Classics programme who study Latin as part of their degree.
• Students who have already obtained a qualification in Latin (e.g., Junior/Leaving Certificate, intensive summer school diploma, or equivalent).

* Please note that assessment methods, assessment weightings and amount of contact hours are subject to change by the module coordinator. You can confirm all assessment details and expected contact hours with the module coordinator upon starting the elective.