Classics · Columbia University
A lot of reading! But honestly, it isn't bad because you're just reading texts/sources that feel like stories. The main point of the class is to look at different sources and compare what each author says about Alexander's life/accomplishments. Attendance and participation is a good portion of your grade. Midterm was some MC and some short answer but wasn't difficult. Final was a presentation to the class which I was nervous for but enjoyed. She doesn't grade harshly as long as you know the material and put in some effort.
So much of Latin forms the backbone of Western culture and thought, so I'd really recommend this course to anyone who appreciates a challenge and values foundational language. 1 Columbia University: Arts & Sciences Fall 2024 Course: LATNUN2102_001_2024_3-INTERMEDIATELATINII : LATNUN2102_001_2024_3 - INTERMEDIATE LATIN II Instructor: Lien Van Geel
I learned about the translation of Latin poetry and prose.
The fundamental basics to reading and translating latin.
Learned about various Augustan poets, different types of Augustan poetry and their hallmark features, the context of this period within Roman history, poetic devices and their functions, translation techniques/practices
Quizzes, exams, weekly translation Fair grading
Basic introduction to reading/translating Latin
Van Geel is a great professor! At times her accent is difficult to understand, but she is very accommodating to students and encourages you to participate. She is very passionate about the material and loves to answer questions. She is also very flexible with office hours and always offers them at the end of class.
Do not expect to develop vocab/translation skills here, since you will be required to memorize her own exact translations and her own terminology.
How the syntax operates in the original text and close reading analyses