Catullus

Course Expectations and Objectives

We will read a wide selection of Catullus, focusing closely on the grammar, vocabulary, and style of the text, with discussion of style, structure and meaning. The student is expected to have mastered a basic second year vocabulary and to be prepared to absorb a considerable quantity of new vocabulary. Complete familiarity with basic forms (declension patterns, pronouns, verb tenses, infinitives, and participles) is required.

Students are expected to have prepared the assigned text well enough to read it with minimal difficulty and discuss grammatical constructions. Our goal is to read with ease these poems with ease to articulate a basic understanding of Catullus' technique (including scansion and rhetorical devices). The work required is considerable, the rewards commensurate.

Our Text

You may use any text of the Catullus available to you. The version at The Latin Library has been formatted for printing and can be used to annotate vocabulary and grammar. A selection of his poems is contained in AP Edition of Catullus. Another excellent introductory edition is A Student's Catallus.

The website Gaius Valerius Catullus offers translations in many languages, as well as a helpful scansion guide for each poem and commentary.

Here is the current list of poems which we will read: 1; 2, 2b, 3, 5, 7, 8, 11, 13, 51, 70, 72, 75, 76, 85, 86, 87, 107, 40, 43, 86, 36, 83, 92; 10, 12, 49, 50; 64 (lines 50-253); 69, 77, 84, 96, 101, 109, 116.

Examinations

There will be 2 exams. The exams will be partly open book (explanation of grammatical principles), partly translation, partly scansion. Additional information will be provided as the exams approach.

Grammar Resources

A systematic grammar of Latin is recommended. Bennett's New Latin Grammar or, better, Allen and Greenough's New Latin Grammar. Both are available for on-line purchase. Handouts on basic grammar and vocabulary are available at the Latin Handout Page.

The Instructor

William L. Carey, Esq.
Blankingship & Keith, P.C.
4020 University Drive, Suite 300
Fairfax, Virginia 22030
703-691-1235

Email: wcarey@gmu.edu