Classical Languages (Last Assessment 2023)

Frst Assessment 2016

Nature of the Subject

Classical languages comprise Latin and Classical Greek, and these subjects are offered in group 2 of the IB Diploma Programme. Whereas the other subjects offered in group 2 cover a broad spectrum of modern language courses, the two classical language subjects provide students with the opportunity to study two historically significant languages that are also embedded in many modern languages. Latin and Classical Greek are separate courses, but they share the same syllabus and assessment criteria. The Diploma Programme courses in classical languages provide an opportunity for students to explore the languages, literatures and cultures of ancient Greece and Rome. These ancient civilizations have played a vital part in shaping many modern societies and cultures. The languages themselves are versatile and finely structured, and have had a major influence on the development of most modern European languages. The rich and varied literatures of Greece and Rome have left their mark on almost every genre of modern writing. The study of classical languages gives important insights into the cultures that produced them, and therefore leads to a greater understanding of contemporary languages, literature and cultures. Fundamentally, the study of classical languages trains the mind, developing skills of critical thought, memory and close analysis, as well as an appreciation of the beauty and power of language. Other classical languages such as Sanskrit, Arabic and Hebrew, which have all made important contributions to modern societies, are beyond the scope of this guide.

In the classical languages it is a fundamental principle that the texts be studied in their original language. Linguistic skills lie at the heart of the courses, since it is through a deep understanding of the workings of a language that true intellectual contact can be made with the peoples of the past. Through this course, students will learn to translate Latin and Classical Greek works accurately and sensitively. Students will also study different genres of classical texts, examining the ideas in these works and their artistry within their historical, political and cultural contexts.