How to learn Latin language books and software list

Welcome to the how to learn latin language books and software section (UK and US). Learning the Latin language can be a challenge, so this section provides information about books and software that will help you succeed in learning and studying that ancient roman language. The selection includes 'modern' Latin language books, books on medieval Latin, Latin language books for beginners, plus Latin grammer and textbooks. Good luck in your ancient Latin language studies!

Harrius Potter et Philosophi Lapis (Latin language edition)

Harrius Potter et Philosophi Lapis; Caput Primum; Puer qui Vixit; 'Dominus et Domina Dursley, qui vivebant in aedibus Gestationis Ligustrorum numero quattor signatis...' this opening, also known as 'Mr and Mrs Dursley, of number four, Privet Drive...' has become one of the most read opening chapters in the world. Newly translated into Latin for the first time, this is following in the steps of other great children's classics, including Winnie the Pooh (winnie ille pu) and Paddington Bear (ursus nomine paddington). The huge task of translating into Latin (most translations are done from Latin) has been undertaken by Peter Needham, who taught Latin at Eton for over 30 years. James Morwood, of Oxford University, has said of the translation, 'The translation is great stuff. It is accurate and fluent, but it is much more than that. It has been carried off with wit, inventiveness, sensitivity and panache. I find it impossible to think of its being better done.' (Source - Amazon UK - 19 Jan 2005) MindZeit Note: If your latin is not very advanced, read it with, or after the original!

Green Eggs and Ham In Latin: Virent Ova! Viret Perna!!

Skillfully translated into Latin, this charming rendition of the beloved children's book will delight students of the language. (Source - Amazon UK - 8 Feb 2005) MindZeit Note : the detailed review by a reader on Amazon US is worth looking at, if you like Green Eggs & Ham!

Learn Latin: The Book of the "Daily Telegraph" Q.E.D.Series (Greek & Latin Language)

Taken from the "QED" series of teach-yourself Latin articles published in the "Daily Telegraph" and the "Sunday Telegraph", this book aims to give its readers a basic knowledge of Latin in a short space of time. It covers just enough to give a basic understanding of Latin, and to enable readers to read and understand parts of the Bayeux Tapestry, the love poetry of Catullus, or Saint Jerome's "Vulgate". This book also aims to give a deeper understanding of modern European languages, such as English, French, Spanish, and Italian, through an understanding of the ancient language at their heart. (Source - Amazon UK - 19 Jan 2005)

Reading Medieval Latin

Reading Medieval Latin is an anthology of Medieval Latin texts, arranged chronologically and thematically with introductions, commentaries and a vocabulary of nonclassical words and meanings. It is a language textbook, designed to introduce students with one year or more of Latin to the Latin writing and culture of the period A.D. 550-1200. It is the only systematic introduction for students to all types of Medieval Latin writing. (Source - Amazon UK - 16 Mar 2005)

Latin for Dummies

...You can learn true Latin, with conjugations, declensions, and all those extra syllables -- and it's easier than you think. In fact, most people mistakenly think of learning Latin as perhaps the most useless, tedious, and difficult thing to do on earth. They couldn't be more wrong. Latin For Dummies takes you back for a quick jaunt through the parlance of ancient Rome, as well as discussing the progress of Latin into church language, and its status today as the "dead" language that lives on in English, Spanish, Italian, and most other Western tongues. Written for those with zero prior knowledge of Latin, this snappy guide puts the basics at your fingertips and steers clear of the arcane, schoolmarm stereotype of endless declensions and Herculean translations. Easy-to-understand sections describe: * Latin you already know * Grammar * Pronunciation * Latin in action * Latin in law * Latin in medicine * Latin for impressing your friends * And much more. No dusty tome or other such artifact, Latin For Dummies makes learning fun and brings the language to life by presenting conversations in various Roman settings, as well as providing fun facts and stories about classical life... (Source - Amazon UK - 19 Jan 2005) MindZeit Note: See Amazon USA for reviews.

Domus Anguli Puensis: A Latin Version of A.A. Milne's "the House at Pooh Corner"

Synopsis not available.

Winnie Ille Pu: A Latin Version of A.A. Milne's "Winnie-the-Pooh"

Synopsis not available.

Ecce Romani: BK.1 Meeting the Family

Synopsis not available.

Ecce Romani: Bk.2 Rome at Last

Synopsis not available.

Ecce Romani: BK.3 Home and School

Synopsis not available.

A Dictionary of Latin Words and Phrases

Can you ad lib cum laude? Are you in extremis whenever you hear a Latin tag or phrase in medias res? Or, a contrario, would you like to learn more about how familiar expressions originated ab initio? Nil desperandum. This browsable guide to Latin phrases provides a concise account of the meaning and history of words and expressions which have entered the English language. (Source - Amazon UK - 19 Jan 2005)

A Latin Grammar

This text offers: clearly written explanations of key Latin grammar points in an easily navigable layout; example sentences; a vocabulary list; coverage of all the Latin words found in the text; a glossary of grammatical terms; extra support for beginners, and a handy refresher reference for more advance students; information about the Roman world - special appendices on Roman dates, money, weights, measures, and names; an explanation of literary terms and a list of helpful study tips give students useful advice on learning the language; and a guide to pronunciation. (Source - Amazon UK - 19 Jan 2005)

Revised Medieval Latin Word List: From British and Irish Sources

This reference work of medieval Latin words has been prepared under the direction of a committee appointed by the British Academy. (Source - Amazon UK - 16 Mar 2005)

Essential Latin: The Language and Life of Ancient Rome

An introduction, or re-introduction, to the world of ancient Rome for students and armchair enthusiasts alike. The author presents a comprehensive survey of the language, life, history and customs of a culture that continues to influence our own. Through a variety of authentic texts, the student is guided through the mechanics of Latin, whilst gaining an insight into the glory that was Rome, its power struggles and the eventual fall of the empire. The writings of Virgil, Cicero, Juvenal and many others appear in the original Latin, with translations and full linguistic support. Further features include: exercises with a full answer key; notes on the authors; summary of dates and events;pronunciation guide; and a glossary of grammatical terms and grammar tables. (Source - Amazon UK - 19 Jan 2005)

Essential Latin: The Language and Life of Ancient Rome [AUDIOBOOK]

This 1x60 minute cassette comprises recordings in the Latin language to complement texts and extracts in the Essential Latin book, the ideal introduction to the language and life of ancient Rome. (Source - Amazon UK - 19 Jan 2005)

Beginner's Latin (Teach Yourself Languages Series)

Follow a Latin story set in a medieval monastery, where conspiracy unfolds in the cloisters, Vikings threaten to attack and young lovers set out to unmask the villains. Sample some classical Italian too, and learn more about the authors who wrote it. This text is intended for beginners and introduces the language step by step through an interesting and humorous story. Each unit contains grammatical explanations and vocabulary support. There are plenty of exercises to practice each point as it is introduced to help you remember what you have learnt. There are two revision units so that you can check your progress and review areas of difficulty. "About Latin" sections offer information about the history of the language and its influence upon English. "Living Latin" sections contain pieces of authentic Latin, most of which is classical. They are included to give you an idea of what there is to enjoy once you have mastered the language and the translations are given. Two accompanying CDs are included with the book. The recording contains the story and the "Living Latin" sections of the book, to enhance enjoyment of the poetry and offer an idea of what Latin sounded like. (Source - Amazon UK - 19 Jan 2005)

Learn to Read Latin

A Latin grammar and reader all in one, "Learn to Read Latin" presents basic Latin morphology and syntax with clear explanations and examples, and it offers direct access to great works of Latin literature even at the earliest stages of learning the language. As beginning students learn basic forms and grammar, they also gain familiarity with patterns of Latin word order and other features of style, thus becoming well prepared for later, more difficult texts. No other beginning Latin book contains unaltered versions of ancient texts. "Learn to Read Latin" includes the writings of such authors as Caesar, Cicero, Sallust, Catullus, Vergil, and Ovid, arranged chronologically and accompanied by introductions to each author and each work. These readings serve as the chief training texts around which the book's 15 chapters are constructed. A workbook is also available, providing abundant drills for each chapter of the text. The workbook exercises can be used in the classroom, for homework assignments, for extra individual drill work, or as a home study tool. (Source - Amazon UK - 19 Jan 2005)

Learn to Read Latin: Workbook

See textbook synopsis.

Latin Prep: Bk. 1 (So You Really Want to Learn Series)

Latin Prep is a new three part course following the revised CE syllabus through the 3 Levels. Attention is paid to clear grammatical explanations, constant repetition of the prescribed vocabulary, and a format that ties in with what pupils will meet in the exam. Where the going gets a little tough, we throw in a joke or a silly comment and some illustrations from our resident comic genius, Ian Douglass. A separate volume is in preparation which will cover the background material required for the revised syllabus. Because this material is not specific to particular levels of the Latin exam, it seemed best to keep it together in one volume so that pupils may use it, whichever level they are attempting. (Source - Amazon UK - 19 Jan 2005)

Latin Prep: Bk. 2 (So You Really Want to Learn Series)

For details see book 1.

Latin Prep: Bk.1 Answer Book (So You Really Want to Learn Series)

For details see book 1.

Latin Prep: Bk.2 Answer Book (So You Really Want to Learn Series)

For details see book 1.

So You Really Want to Learn Latin Translations

A translation book to accompany Book I of 'So you really want to learn Latin'. A lively selection of translation passages, graded in difficulty and specially geared to the grammar and vocabulary of the course book, this beautifully illustrated book allows pupils to gain confidence in translating Latin without confusing them with unfamiliar forms. (Source - Amazon UK - 19 Jan 2005)