Award-Winning Latin Lessons in Syracuse, NY

Sign up for a Syracuse Latin lessons provided by Varsity Tutors, and you might discover that learning this ancient language isn't quite as hard as you initially thought. While many people dismiss Latin as a "dead language," it's very much alive in many aspects of our society, our academic disciplines, and even our way of thinking. The ancient Romans had a massive influence on many cultures around the world, and by extension their language helped shape these cultures. Today, we still use many Latin phrases all the time, and you might not even be aware that you're using Latin in your everyday speech. "Et cetera," "status quo," and "vice versa" are all examples of Latin phrases that have been virtually unaltered over thousands of years. We still use those phrases in pretty much the same way as the ancient Romans did.

There are plenty of other examples of common Latin phrases we use all the time, and we also use Latin in many of our intellectual disciplines. Whenever researchers discover a new species of plant or animal, it's given a scientific Latin name. Latin words are also used in Law. For example, "pro bono" and "alibi" are both unaltered Latin phrases. We also use Latin in theology and many other disciplines. Latin had such a major influence on our society because in many ways, the Romans laid the foundations for modern civilization as we know it. Although the Ancient Greeks were also very influential, it was the Romans who used military might to conquer the known world and forcibly bring their advanced civilization wherever they went. Because Latin influenced our language and many others, we can safely say that it helped form our societies, our cultures, our philosophies, and many other aspects of our lives. Although the Romans were militaristic, they were also extremely ahead of their time. In fact, much of civilization collapsed after the fall of the Roman Empire, descending into what scholars call "the Dark Ages." But through it all, the Latin language remained.

Even in the Medieval times, Latin was the language of choice for scholars and the educated classes, especially literate monks and clergymen. These scholars continued to write manuscripts and documents in Latin, and it was a language that only educated folk could understand. If you decide to learn Latin, you'll join the ranks of these scholars who have held a monopoly on the Latin language throughout time. Even at the height of the Roman empire, relatively few people could understand written Latin. Understanding Latin allows you to analyze a wide range of historical documents, inscriptions, and manuscripts. This might be incredibly useful for anyone studying history and related subjects. Perhaps there's a program at Syracuse University where Latin could be advantageous. Or perhaps you're just a motivated high school student at Henninger High School or Corcoran High School and you want to learn Latin from an early age. Latin could be a smart choice as the first language you learn outside of English, as this language forms the root for many others. The Romance languages are heavily based on Latin, and you might find that learning this ancient language helps you learn the modern Romance languages much more effectively. A Syracuse Latin course can help you gain a much deeper understanding of Latin and all its elements, no matter why you're studying it in the first place.

Scholars agree that there are two distinct forms of Latin: Vulgar Latin and Classical Latin. In many ways, the Romance languages are simply heavily modified version of Vulgar Latin. This form of Latin was spoken by the "common folk" of the Roman empire, and it was carried across the known world by soldiers, merchants, slaves, and other such "low class" individuals. Vulgar Latin was extremely flexible and varied from region to region. That might explain the distinct differences between Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, and other Romance languages. In contrast, Classical Latin was the language spoken by high-class intellectuals, aristocrats, and philosophers of Rome. Most of the preserved inscriptions and documents we find from ancient Rome were written in Classical Latin, and it was a highly formal, elegant language with strict rules and a very specific structure.

There are two types of Latin lessons available: Latin courses or private Latin instruction. We can set you up with a Syracuse Latin tutor within 24 hours if you want to start right away. Many students choose to take both courses and private instruction at the same time to provide an all-around education with many benefits.

What Might Syracuse Latin Lessons Cover?

Latin uses a unique gender-based system with three separate states. In addition to masculine and feminine, there's also "neuter." Latin also uses a very interesting system of inflections. Inflections help us understand what is happening in Latin sentences, and to whom. These word endings are very specific, and as such pronouns are often unnecessary. Both these features are markedly different from those you might find in the English language, and they might be challenging for students. You'll find that mastering this three gendered structure and the complex system of inflections is paramount to understanding the Latin language. While expanding your vocabulary is definitely important, understanding these two key concepts will form the basis of your Latin course as you begin your education. With all that said, there are many similarities between Latin and English. After all, English was influenced by Latin far more than any other Germanic language.

How Do The Two Types Of Syracuse Latin Lessons Help You Learn?

Syracuse Latin lessons take place in fully online, virtual classrooms. You'll learn alongside other students in a group-based, collaborative learning environment with proven benefits. Just like a normal classroom, you can interact with your instructors and ask questions as you learn. Your teacher is a highly qualified, expert Latin instructor.

On the other hand, Syracuse Latin tutors work with you on a one-on-one basis. You can choose to learn in an online environment or in person. Online tutors meet with you online and help you learn through a Live Learning Platform complete with a virtual whiteboard. Tutoring allows you to enjoy a customized learning experience tailored to your unique learning style.

How Do You Sign Up For Syracuse Latin Lessons?

Signing up for your Syracuse Latin lessons is easy, and you'll choose from a variety of flexible scheduling options. Night classes, weekend classes, or even classes during your lunch break are all available. Whatever your schedule might look like, we have a class that fits. You can also choose between two-week and four-week classes, with new classes starting up every single month. Tutors are also very easy to connect with, either online or in person.

Contact Varsity Tutors today, and we'll provide you with all the necessary information you need to book your first Syracuse Latin lessons, whether you're opting for a tutor or a virtual class.