Summer School in Latin (2017): Bracciano and Rome – Call for Applications

Summer School in Latin
Bracciano and Rome
8-22 July, 2017

THE COURSE

This two-week intensive course will guide participants through the basics of Latin to selected literature from the classical and medieval ages. We shall also read works in neo-Latin (Latin written in the Renaissance and since) and inscriptions from all periods, ancient and modern. The major emphasis will be on the Latin of the Middle Ages.

THE VENUES

Week one will be taught at the Villaggio Betania, run by the Nashville Dominican Sisters, in Bracciano, an attractive town about 30 kms from Rome. Week two will be spent at the Bernardi campus of the University of St Thomas, overlooking the Tiber in central Rome, and close to sites of extraordinary interest and beauty.

WHY LATIN?

Latin is arguably the mother-tongue of Europe. Its literature is immensely rich: original work continued to be written in the Latin language up to modern times. It is arguable that some knowledge of Latin is essential to the full appreciation of English literature written up to at the least the beginning of the twentieth century, because Latin was part of the intellectual equipment of most authors until that time. Students of history, philosophy and modern languages also recognize the value of increased familiarity with primary sources. Latin is a doorway that can lead you to wonderful delights.

PREREQUISITES?

There are no formal prerequisites. However beginners, especially those who have never studied a language other than English, are strongly urged to buy a self-instruction primer and work through the initial stages at least prior to the start of the course. On the other hand, already proficient readers of Latin have enjoyed our courses and derived benefit and pleasure from reading material from outside the standard curricula. The teaching method allows this versatility. All translation is done by the lecturer to ensure rapid and efficient coverage of material, and no participant is embarrassed by questioning. On the other hand questioning and discussion is encouraged: participants from a diversity of backgrounds have contributed wonderfully to the success of these schools.

COURSE CONTENT

We shall read only ‘real’ Latin. Scripture and basic liturgical texts will be included as introductory material due to their relative ease and familiarity. Patristic authors such as St Augustine will be examined. Other material covered: philosophical and theological Latin (Boethius, Aquinas); secular poetry (e.g. the Carmina Burana) and religious poetry including specimens of the great tradition of Latin hymnody (Ambrose, Venantius, sequences); narrative and history (Einhard, the Legenda Aurea); texts representing the continuation of the classical tradition. Other material can be included on request.

WHY ITALY?

What better place to learn Latin than in its heartland? Excursions to sites of particular interest in Rome and surrounding areas form a part of the course. We shall learn to interpret inscriptions that tell us so much yet escape the notice of ordinary visitors. Italian culture and language are intimately involved with Latin and the course will seek to clarify the linkage between the two.

THE LECTURER

David Daintree has taught intensive summer schools in Latin for over twenty years. His courses have been offered in Hobart, Sydney, Perth and New Zealand. With Dr Susanna Rizzo he established Campion College’s biennial Rome Summer School in 2012.

THE COST

The cost of the two-week programme will be 1,500 Euros for twin-share accommodation. Single accommodation will also be available on request. The cost includes accommodation, tuition, written materials and some meals – all meals at Bracciano and breakfast only at the Bernardi campus. It excludes air fares and airport transfers – participants should make their own arrangements to arrive in time for the course. Arrive Bracciano Saturday 8 July (own arrangements). We shall travel as a group by train to central Rome on Saturday 15 July. Check out Saturday 22 July.

FURTHER INFORMATION AND ENROLMENTS

Please contact Dr Daintree directly – dccdain@gmail.com