Date of Award

2023

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Classical Studies

Thesis Advisor

Anita Simpkins

Committee Professor

David Masterson

Abstract

It is well known that the study of Latin increases English vocabulary, helps one understand grammar, raises standardized test scores, and helps one learn other languages. As modern education sees itself as an agent for change and social reform set on reconstructing society, fewer schools are offering Latin to students. Of those that do offer it, many are veering away from the traditional approach which has a goal of being able to read and connect with the writing of the great thinkers of the past while utilizing a methodology that focuses on grammar and syntax. This paper looks at three philosophies of education: modern, classical, and classical Christian and the different approaches used to study Latin. It also discusses the results of a study performed utilizing the classical Christian model of education in conjunction with the study of Latin to encourage ideas of intentionality and purposefulness, specifically that of stopping in order to attend to the details, slowing down in order to process information, and contemplating in order to wonder. Results indicate that studying Latin using the classical Christian model of education increases intentionality.

Keywords: classical Christian education, Latin language, intentionality, trivium

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