Classical Latin at U of T

SALVETE!

Latin is a member of the Indo-European family of languages, and is part of the Italic branch of that family. Although it is technically classified as a dead language, it is still spoken in present-day times in the various guises of the Romance languages, such as French, Spanish, Italian and Portuguese, all of which are descendents of Latin.
Classical Latin was the language of many great Roman authors and thinkers — such as Cicero, Catullus, Lucretius, and Virgil.
Those who learn Latin can read directly the words of great masterpieces in poetry, history, philosophy, etc.
Ancient Latin literature became the foundation for the Western world for all academic areas.
Borrowing the Ancient Greek alphabet, the Romans created a script which is used for countless modern languages today, including English.
Latin formed the basis for the Romance languages, and was central in the development of English. Latin roots can be discovered in very many modern English words.
Classical Latin has a very straightforward system of grammar, and students of Latin will develop enormous insight into the grammar of many modern languages.

Is learning Classical Latin slow and laborious?
All language lovers will enjoy Classical Latin, and the study of Latin will help everyone learn other languages better. Latin requires steady work and much memorization, but an introductory course will lead the student along at a manageable pace.
Isn’t Latin a dead language?
It is true that one cannot travel somewhere to speak Classical Latin, and the primary purpose of learning Latin is to read ancient literature. But Latin is spoken in Latin classes—not only to communicate about the language but also to enjoy its noble and dignified rhythms.
Is Latin related to any modern languages?
Latin formed the basis of the Romance languages, like French, Spanish, and Italian, and it was an essential part of the development of English. Knowing Latin helps one understand these modern languages enormously.