Latin 4 (CLAS20031)

This subject is designed for students who commenced the Latin stream with some previous knowledge of Latin (VCE level or equivalent) and have completed Latin 3. Students read an extensive extract (usually a book) from a Latin epic poem, such as Virgil's Aeneid, Ovid's Metamorphoses, Lucan's Bellum Civile, or Lucretius’ philosophical epic De Rerum Natura. In addition, work is undertaken on grammar and syntax to revise, consolidate and extend students’ knowledge of the language.

Depending on the text being taught, students will explore the themes and content of epic, such as warfare, empire, heroic culture, ethnic identity and masculinity, the value of poetry for philosophical expression, and consider how the mythic past is used to reflect upon the author’s own time. On completion of the subject students should develop a good knowledge of a key Roman text and an enhanced understanding of Roman literary culture. Students who complete this subject may progress to Latin 5.