Why Learn Latin When You Can Learn a Useful Language

Learning a language today is often guided by practicality and utility. However, disciplinary expertise and academic pursuit in fields like history can reveal the invaluable benefits of studying less commonly used languages like Latin. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind why someone might choose to learn Latin over other more modern languages.

The Academic Pursuit

Morbid's Perspective

As a medievalist with extensive research in that field, my daily work involves the use of Latin. This makes me particularly aware of the hurdles my contemporaries might face, especially those who did not engage with the language during their academic years. Latin was an everyday language for scholars and researchers in the medieval era, and its study often enriches one's understanding of historical texts and literature.

Practical Applications

A Practical Advantage

Some of us find Latin and Greek more useful than other school subjects, as Morbid suggests. In my case, after university, I lived in Iran for three years. Latin proved incredibly useful in learning Persian, as well as Portuguese, Arabic, and Italian. The lessons I learned in ancient languages helped me navigate the linguistic landscape of different cultures more effectively.

The benefits of studying Latin go beyond language acquisition. It also serves as a bridge to understanding ancient history and literature that have influenced modern thought. The ancient world and its languages are not just historical curiosities; they are integral to the development of many modern languages, cultural practices, and philosophical ideas.

Relevance in Modern Contexts

Susto's Insights

Susto, a Latin student, highlights another useful aspect of studying the language. Learning Latin gives a deeper insight into the way cultures think and communicate. The study of Latin illuminates the thought processes of the ancients, from figures like Caesar and Cicero to poets like Virgil and Horace.

A Bi-Directional Knowledge Process

The benefits of these ancient languages are not one-directional. They provide a bridge between the ancient and the modern, enriching both. For instance, the bustling bazaars of Isfahan, the vibrant souqs of Cairo, and the ancient streets of Rome share commonalities that transcend time. This connection helps us understand the evolution of human thought and cultural practices.

Professional Applications

Legal and Medical Fields

For professionals in fields such as medicine and law, Latin is more than an academic subject—it is a necessity. Consider the medical profession, where many original texts are still published in Latin. Doctors often need to understand and translate these works to provide accurate diagnoses and treatments. Similarly, in law, Latin is still used in legal proceedings, and oral tests in Latin are still required for certain professions.

Latin, therefore, not only serves as a tool for personal enrichment and historical understanding but also as a practical requirement in certain professional fields. If you aspire to excel in these professions, knowing Latin can be a significant advantage.

Conclusion

While modern languages like Spanish, Mandarin, or Arabic may seem more practical for everyday use, the study of languages like Latin offers unique insights into the past and opens doors to a broader understanding of human culture and history. Whether you are a historian, a student, or a professional, there is always value in broadening your linguistic and cultural horizons.