Module manager: Regine May
Email: r.may@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
This module is not approved as an Elective
This module enables students with little or no prior knowledge of Latin to acquire and apply Latin language skills as tools for postgraduate research in Classics, Ancient History, or Medieval Studies. It is designed to support students in developing foundational lexical, grammatical, and syntactic knowledge alongside guided engagement with reading and interpretation of primary sources in the original language, and in integrating emerging linguistic competence into their own independent research. Please note this is an optional module and runs subject to enrolments. If a low number of students choose this module, then the module may not run and you may be asked to choose another module.
Through attendance at beginners language classes, alongside dedicated postgraduate small-group seminars and individual guidance tutorials, students will acquire and develop their linguistic competence and learn to apply it critically to the study of texts relevant to their research interests. Intended for beginners, the module provides a structured introduction to the fundamentals of Latin grammar, syntax, and vocabulary, while enabling them to begin working directly with selected primary texts.
With a particular focus on selection, close reading, and research potential of specific primary texts, students will refine their linguistic awareness and develop the ability to deploy linguistic knowledge effectively in the interpretation and analysis of primary evidence.
The module is designed not only to develop linguistic competence, but to foster an explicitly research-led approach to Latin, in which grammatical and syntactic knowledge is integrated with literary, historical, and cultural analysis as part of a coherent methodological framework for postgraduate study.
On successful completion of the module students will be able to, as appropriate to their linguistic level:
1. Translate simple, selected Latin texts, demonstrating interpretative judgement in the use of linguistic resources
2. Analyse lexical, grammatical, and syntactic features of Latin texts as evidence for textual interpretation
3. Contextualise Latin texts by relating linguistic evidence to genre, authorship, and historical and cultural frameworks
4. Reflect critically on the role of language study and the use of primary sources in the original language in research
5. Synthesise and critically evaluate information from primary and secondary sources
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supervision | 2 | 1 | 2 |
| Practical | 40 | 1 | 40 |
| Seminar | 7 | 1 | 7 |
| Private study hours | 251 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 49 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 300 | ||
Students’ progress will be monitored through regular participation in language practicals and postgraduate small-group tutorials. Students will receive ongoing formative feedback on their homework submissions, class participation, and language exercises, supporting the development of their linguistic competence and interpretative skills. In addition, formative guidance will be provided through tutorial discussion of students’ engagement with ancient texts relevant to their research interests, including advice on translation strategies, contextualisation, and the integration of linguistic evidence into postgraduate research. Students will be encouraged to attend their tutors’ office hours to discuss progress, assessment preparation, and the application of language skills to their wider programme of study.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Assignment | Reflective Assignment | 34 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 34 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
| Exam type | Exam duration | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Open Book exam | 2.0 Hrs 0 Mins | 66 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Exams) | 66 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 30/04/2026
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