Beginners Ancient Greek Instructor: K. Kapparis  5 Credits = MTWRF

NOTE: The format and assessment methods will be the same for second semester Greek in the spring. The course book needed will be the second volume of Athenaze, and at the beginning of the semester a more detailed schedule of the weekly assignments will be posted here.

Why Learn Ancient Greek?

• Improve your English: most fancy big words, like chiropodist, gynaecology, embryology, psyche, pathological, epitome, paedagogy, are Greek.
• Terminology: Much of the higher vocabulary in English and most of the medical terminology, astronomical and scientific terms, and even the names of many stars and constellations are really Greek. So, learning Greek enriches your vocabulary and grasp of English.
• Improve on your understanding of Grammar and Syntax in both Greek and English.
• It is an experience for one's intellectual structure to come into contact with a highly precise and uniquely expressive language. We think through language, and precise language results in precise thinking. 
• Greek is the oldest continuously spoken European language. Its first written samples date to 1250 BC. Therefore, learning ancient Greek will be a unique cultural experience.
• A huge amount of high quality literature has been produced in Greek. We will be able to sample this marvel of human creativity in its original form.
• During the course we will make historical references to this uniquely refreshing and highly influential culture, upon which Western civilization has been founded.
• The course could also benefit your theological interests, as in future you be able to consult the New Testament in the original Greek.

• We will work with translation and exercise our skills in this important area.
• We will learn grammar and also refer to English Grammar (which you can also pick up if you already haven’t).
• We will refer to cultural institutions and concepts related to the Greek achievement, and make a closer acquaintance with the wonderful world of ancient Greece, this time from its original texts.

Class Policy:
Attendance is of paramount importance. Language learning is easy if one is consistent but virtually impossible, if one is missing out things here and there. If every week you turn up and do your assignments, learning Greek will be a pleasurable experience.
It is also hoped  that, since we will be seen each other quite a lot, good working relationships and friendship will develop from this class.

Assessment:
8 best class assignments x 10 =80
1 midterm test = 20
The final test is optional and extra-credit

Who to contact?
For the formal/registration part you could consult the Undergraduate Advisor for Classics, Dr. Rea, 142 Dauer Hall jrea@classics.ufl.edu
Regarding the content and the essence of the course you could talk to Dr K. Kapparis, 115A Dauer Hall, Tue. 2-4 pm kapparis@classics.ufl.edu

Course Schedule and Handouts:
Follow this link