Why study Latin?

Latin- a dead language that had almost become as a symbol of wealth and eliteness. Although a rather cliche stereotype, it's sadly quite true.

The earliest form of Latin, known as Old Latin, dates back to around the 6th century BCE. Over time, it evolved into Classical Latin, which was the literary and administrative language of ancient Rome. Classical Latin reached its peak during the golden age of Roman literature, with renowned authors such as Cicero, Virgil, Ovid, and Horace producing works that are still studied and admired today.

The study of classics and Latin is indeed something that was associated with the ruling aristocrats for centuries- indeed, after the fall of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century CE, Latin became highly inaccessible to the common people, and was only studied by people who could afford education. Latin during the mediecal ages was thus used mainly by these educated people, in contexts within the Catholic Church and academia. One of the most famous works written during this period was Thomas Aquinas's theological writings and legal documents.

After Europe emerged from the so-called Dark Ages, it found itself living in an era of prosperity. Art, culture, and intellect flourished under thinkers and writers of the Renaissance age as humanist scholars worked tirelessly to try to restore the purity of Classical Latin. There were also revivals of Roman culture- Roman art and architecture could be seen in myriads of cities in Italy, most notably Florence.

Fast forward a few hundred years, we arrive at the modern era, where Latin is still used in the Catholic Church and in academic nonmenclature. But the legacy of Latin is also etched into our langage- English, Italian, French, Portuguese, Romanian, and so many other languages can find their roots in Latin.

So, buckle up as we delve ever deeper into a language and culture that we are indebted so much to!