Exploring Online Introductory Ancient Greek Courses: Focusing on Attic Greek

If you are interested in learning Attic Greek and have ruled out New Testament Greek, you have a variety of options available to you. This article provides a comprehensive guide to finding the best online introductory courses in Attic Greek, complete with expert recommendations and course reviews from experienced linguists and language enthusiasts.

Recommended Resources for Attic Greek Learning

One of the best approaches to learning Attic Greek is to explore self-study resources and online courses that focus specifically on this dialect. Here are some notable recommendations:

Diachronics Courses on Memrise

Stephanie Nelson's recommendations for learning Greek, particularly his suggestions on Memrise’s Diachronics, include several courses that are highly relevant for Attic Greek learners. Diachronics courses are designed to teach the evolution of Greek from classical to ancient forms. They are especially useful for understanding verb forms and conjugations in Attic Greek. These courses are a great way to immerse yourself in the vocabulary and grammar of Attic Greek without the need for travel to ancient Greece.

Memrise for Vocabulary Building

For those who need to build a large vocabulary quickly, Memrise is an unparalleled tool. Although Memrise is not designed specifically for ancient languages, it excels in vocabulary acquisition. It uses mnemonic techniques and spaced repetition to help you memorize vocabulary effectively. However, it is important to note that while vocabulary is crucial, grammar and context are also vital components of language learning. While Memrise excels in the vocabulary vacuum stage, it should be complemented with structured learning materials.

Biblical Ancient Greek - Comprehensive List

Despite your preference for Attic Greek, it’s worth noting that some methodologies and resources can be adapted for learning Attic Greek. One such resource is the Biblical Ancient Greek - Comprehensive List. This list, which has been recommended by many, focuses on New Testament Greek but can still be useful for learning grammar and syntax. The methodologies and exercises may prove valuable for understanding the structure of Greek in general, which can aid in your learning of Attic Greek.

Donald Mastronarde’s Ancient Greek Tutorial

For a structured and comprehensive approach, Donald Mastronarde's tutorials are highly recommended. His website offers a wealth of ancient Greek tutorials and drills, catering to beginners regardless of the text book used. Mastronarde’s materials are based on his own textbook but are designed to be flexible and adaptable for any learner. These resources are ideal for those who prefer a self-study approach and need a well-rounded toolset to complement their learning.

Conclusion

Learning Attic Greek is not just about acquiring vocabulary and grammar—it’s about understanding the evolution of the language and connecting with its rich history. Whether you opt for self-study courses on Memrise, comprehensive vocabulary lists, or structured tutorials from Donald Mastronarde, there are numerous resources available to help you on your journey.

By leveraging these high-quality resources, you can build a solid foundation in Attic Greek and gain a deeper appreciation for the language and its historical significance. Happy learning!