Should High School Students Enroll in Latin?
As a former Latin student who was forced to take the subject for 2 years, I can confidently share my perspective on whether enrolling in Latin as a high school elective is beneficial. While there are some valid reasons to study Latin, there are also significant drawbacks that often outweigh these advantages.
Why Enroll in Latin?
Outright Love for the Subject: If you have a deep appreciation for the Latin language and enjoy reading classic texts such as Vergil's Aeneid and Ovid's works in their original language, then studying Latin is a fantastic choice. The beauty and complexity of these texts can be truly enriching.
Passion for Classics: If you are passionate about Greek and Roman classical literature and history, Latin can open the door to a world of knowledge and appreciation that no other language or subject can match.
Why Not Enroll in Latin?
Myth: Understanding English and Romance Languages: While Latin indeed lays the groundwork for understanding the roots of many English and Romance languages, the benefits of this are overstated. Learning modern Romance languages through immersion or simple study can achieve the same results.
Myth: Enhancing Thinking Skills: The claim that Latin improves critical thinking is questionable. Any subject, when studied deeply, can enhance cognitive abilities. However, focusing on a dead language does not serve this goal effectively. Moreover, the nebulous claim that Latin helps one succeed in the tech world, as exemplified by Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg, is highly dubious. Success in technology and business comes from practical skills and knowledge, not from the ability to recite ancient texts.
Myth: Facilitating Learning in Other Subjects: The notion that Latin aids in learning Biology, Law, etc., is an overstatement. While some Latin terminology is used in these fields, the real success in these areas depends on strong reasoning and understanding within those specific disciplines, not on one’s knowledge of Latin.
Myth: Getting into College: While extracurricular activities and performance in core classes are more crucial for college admissions, it is not advisable to take Latin solely for this purpose. Enjoyment of the subject and personal passion should be the driving factors for enrollment.
Conclusion
Latin, like any subject, can offer unique value, particularly to those who have a genuine appreciation for classic literature and history. However, for many students, it may come across as a niche and dated subject with limited practical application. Enroll in Latin because you genuinely love it or because you are fascinated by classical literature. Approach it with a clear-eyed understanding of its role in academic and personal development.