Latin 204: Introduction to Latin Literature

This course is an introduction to Latin literature in prose through one of the few surviving Roman novels, the Satyrica of Petronius, and through Amerigo Vespucci’s Mundus Novus, a piece of travel literature by the man America’s name was derived from.

From time to time, there will also be a review of grammar and syntax chosen to accompany selected passages from the Satyrica and Mundus Novus.

Occasional quizzes, homework assignments, and in-class exercises will support students’ increasing fluency.

For the purpose of evaluating the two literary works from a literary as well as historical perspective, students will choose one piece of secondary scholarship or a subject matter to present and discuss.

The readings of the Latin originals, English translations and the presentations will accompany frequent and lively class discussions.