Otacilia Severa, wife of Emperor Philip I
247/248 AD Image courtesy of Edgar L. Owen,
Latin 203,

Fall 2001

games for Rome's 1000th birthday
Image courtesy of Edgar L. Owen,

Instructor:

Texts: Objectives: The aims of the course are:
  1. to refine the skill necessary for reading, understanding, and appreciating select Latin authors,
  2. to establish a basic understanding of Roman culture in such a way as to understand some of the ways in which the ancient world was similar to and different from our own contemporary world
Relationship to the General Education Curriculum: For students placing at this level, Latin 203 satisfies the second course option of study within the Cultural Diversity and Global Interdependence Context of Tier II. As stated in the course objectives, Latin 203 provides students with opportunities to learn fundamental skills necessary to understand more directly the ways in which members of another culture communicate with one another. Mastering the linguistic patterns of the language and gaining a familiarity with other culturally determined forms of communication, e.g. gestures, patterns of social interaction, offer opportunities for reflection on varying cultural, social, and historical traditions. Learning a foreign language encourages awareness of and respect for other cultures; through language study students should gain insights into some of the ways that their own culture is similar to and different from that of those who spoke and wrote in another language. It is hoped that students will acquire a deeper understanding of cultural differences and greater respect for other peoples and cultures because of their foreign language study.

 Grading: There will be on average 1 quiz every other week (50 pts each). The final will be composed of two quizzes. Homework and/or class participation will count the equivalent of two quizzes (100 pts total). There will be 1-3 reports (50 pts each). You may drop your lowest two scores. I expect you to abide by Westminster's Honor Code.

Attendance: Regular attendance and participation are essential for the success of the class. More than 3 unexcused absences will be considered excessive, and no make-up work will be accepted for unexcused absences.

Assignments: Below are the projected assignments for the first several weeks. The assignments, however, will be adjusted to needs of the class, and we will not rush ahead simply to stay in line with the syllabus. I will announce well in advance any changes in the assignments as they become necessary.

Assignments (tentative dates)

 
Aug. 27-31
 M-F Introduction. 
 Sept. 5-7
 W-F Ch. 34-35; Quiz 1
10-14
 M-F Ch. 36-37
17-21
 M-F Ch. 38-39; Quiz 2
24-28
 M-F Ch. 40-41
Oct. 3-5
 W-F Ch. 42-43; Quiz 3
8-12
 M-F Ch. 44-45
15-19
 M-F Ch. 46-47; Quiz 4
22-26
 M-F Ch. 48-49
29-Nov. 2
 M-F Ch. 50-51; Quiz 5
5-9
 M-F Ch.52-53
12-16
 M-F Ch. 54; Readings from Oxford Latin Reader; Quiz 6
19
 M Readings from Oxford Latin Reader
26-30
 M-F Readings from Oxford Latin Reader; Quiz 7
Dec. 3-7
 M-F Readings from Oxford Latin Reader