Why Learn Latin?

Over the years, I have had many complaints from students, and may I even say some parents, about why they have to study Latin: “What is the point?” “No one speaks it anymore!” “I am going to drop it at my next school anyway!”

A few of those points may be true and Latin may seem like a ‘dead language’. However, it is still spoken (even if only by a few) and is commonly studied and read for a variety of compelling, beneficial reasons:

1. Languages

Latin never truly died, but rather evolved into French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese and Romanian, which are more commonly known as the Romance languages. The majority of the vocabulary of these languages comes from Latin, so to learn Latin is therefore to begin a study of six languages at once; two of which are commonly taught at Secondary Schools. Studying Latin also helps students in mastering English. Half of all English words are derived from Latin, which will greatly expand a student's vocabulary. The regular grammar of Latin is also ideal for learning English grammar or the grammar of many other languages.

2. Brain Training

The study of Latin is an ongoing practice in linguistic puzzle-solving that generally helps students to become close and thoughtful readers and writers. Many scholars believe it also hones the mental faculties, cultivating careful analysis and attention. This allows students to not only decipher their Latin but improve the key skill of critical thinking, which will help them in their academic pursuits, such as the core subject of Maths, and also the wider world.

3. History

The study of Latin allows the students to immerse themselves in the history of the Ancient World and more specifically the Roman Empire, which has had profound and continuing effects on Western civilization. Through Latin, they can read about the exploits of Julius Caesar, the Roman Invasion of Britain and what individual Roman citizens thought about religion, politics, the weather or the gladiatorial games in the original language.

4. Careers

Latin prepares students for many important professions that are steeped in Latin terms and phrases or in English words derived from Latin. These career fields include law, medicine, science, music, theology, philosophy, art and literature. Most universities would prefer that students applying for medicine, law or science have a background in Latin. 

In conclusion, a student may not go on to study Latin at A Level or university but will gain a plethora of skills and knowledge that will help them with their other academic pursuits, their future careers and general life skills.