The Classics Department at Jesuit High School maintains the fine tradition which the French Jesuits brought to New Orleans in 1847. From the College of the Immaculate Conception on Baronne Street to Jesuit High School on Carrollton Avenue, a comprehensive course in classical studies has been maintained including authors such as Caesar, Cicero, Vergil, Horace, and Ovid.

Why Study Latin?
You can increase your vocabulary, your most valuable tool in thinking and communicating. You can gain a sharpened awareness of the precise meanings of words in English, because Latin has furnished the tools for more than half of the words in English; you can have "inside information" on professional, scientific, and technical terms; and you can have the pleasure of recognizing old friends in new words as your vocabulary is broadened. You can become acquainted with the mainstream of our western civilization, those intellectual and cultural traditions that have helped to shape our society. You can come to understand more intimately our world of today by sharing in the common heritage of the western world. You can learn to study more effectively through Latin. You will be prepared for college and an academic career where discipline in language, effective vocabulary, and good study habits are necessary for success.

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS:

Latin I
An introduction to the basics of Latin grammar, syntax, and grammar. All declensions, conjugations, and elementary constructions are presented and are mastered through Latin-to-English and English-to-Latin exercises. Some attention is given to the study of mythology and Roman culture.

Latin II
Consists of a thorough review of Latin I and the mastery of the intermediate Latin grammar. Reading skills are developed through the translation of the labors of Hercules, the adventures of Ulysses, and the exploits of Jason. During the second semester students translate selections from Caesar’s Gallic Wars.

Latin III
Consists of a thorough review of Latin II and the mastery of advanced Latin grammar. The history of the Roman Republic is presented as an essential background for reading Cicero. Latin readings consist of selections from the orations and literary works of Cicero.

Latin IV
A study of Vergil’s Aeneid. The selections are the passages prescribed by the Advanced Placement syllabus. Latin poetics and the history of the Augustan period form an integral part of the course.

Latin V-AP
A study of the poetry of Catullus (fall semester) and Horace (spring semester). The selections read are the poems prescribed by the Advanced Placement syllabus. Advanced Latin poetics and metrics form an integral part of the course. Either semester may be elected separately.

Greek I
An introduction to the basics of Homeric Greek. During the second semester students translate selections from Homer’s Odyssey. Some attention is given to the study of ancient Greek civilization.

Greek II
Consists of a thorough review of Greek I and the mastery of intermediate Homeric grammar. Students read extensively from Homer’s Odyssey.

Greek III
Marks the transition from Homeric Greek to Attic Greek. All aspects of Attic Greek grammar are presented. Reading selections are taken from such works as the Fables of Aesop, the Republic of Plato, and the koine Greek of St. John’s Gospel. Students read extensively in the history of Greek civilization.

Greek IV
The study of Greek tragedy. Students translate the Medea of Euripides and read five other tragedies in translation. During the final month of the course, students read selections from the Greek lyric poets.