In this course, students undertake the transition from learning Latin forms and constructions piecemeal to practicing the art and science of translation.  They cut their teeth on modern novellas exclusively in Latin, sharpening their skills and consolidating their knowledge of fundamental grammar.  They move on read authentic extracts from Roman authors, e.g., Ovid's hugely influential Metamorphoses.

Students enrolled in Latin IV read selected letters of Pliny the Younger (c. 61 - c. 115 CE), which treat subjects as diverse as good and bad dinner parties, the daily rat-race in Rome, founding an indepedent school, rowdy fans at chariot races, and financial malfeasence in the province of Pontus and Bithynia.  We also read the famous pair of letters that tell us all that we now about the cataclysmic eruption of Mt. Vesuvius

Those who wish to do so may sign on for Honors credit.  To earn it, students will be expected to turn in several assignments over the course of the year above and beyond the basic expectations.

In this capstone course, students will undertake extensive readings in the undisputed masterpiece of Latin literature, Vergil's Aeneid. Though we never lose sight of the "nuts and bolts" of grammar, nevertheless we make time to consider the poem qua literature, with due attention given to rhetorical devices, epic similes, and Vergil's adaptation of his Greek (Homeric) models.  Students who wish to sit the Advanced Placement test in Latin literature will be prepared to do so in May.

Those who wish to do so may sign on for Honors credit.  To earn it, students will be expected to turn in several assignments over the course of the year above and beyond the basic expectations.