The OJCL Torch Fall 2020 | Page 16

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Study a Dead Language?Why Not!

Southern Gubernator Pierce Bruner

Five years ago, little middle school Pierce had to choose a global language to study. And that selection was Latin. I didn’t really have a logical reason for this choice of language; I just felt it in my gut. Latin just seemed right for me. With my decision, however, came the age-old question from friends, neighbors, and even a few distant family members, “Why do you want to study a dead language?” I’ll be honest-- at first I thought Latin was going to be an easy class. After all, I’d never actually have to speak it. Little did I know that it would be one of the most rigorous, yet enjoyable, challenges that I would ever undertake.

I’m currently in my fifth year of Latin study, and I’m still hearing the “dead language” stuff. Now, however, I have a proper response for Latin’s detractors. Latin isn’t dead. Latin is alive, and it’s everywhere. As I walked through New York City nearly three years ago, I saw enough references to Latin and the Classics to fill multiple storage devices on my camera. In the Metropolitan Museum of Art there are entire wings dedicated to the Classics. New York Public Library has Latin inscribed on the walls, floors, and ceiling. An ornate statue of Hermes welcomes visitors to Grand Central Station. The list just goes on and on and on. landmarks without the study of Latin? Probably not.

Latin has been life changing for me. Not only have I paid more attention to the details in places I visit, the Classics community has truly taught me about the meaning of friends. The OJCL is just one large family of students in Ohio that all share a common passion: the civilizations of ancient Greece and Rome. The people I meet at OJCL gatherings and competitions foster my love of Latin and inspire me to study.

Finally, my Latin class itself is a thing to behold. The skills I am learning in my Latin course have been improved by understanding of English grammar, etymology, classical philosophy, and many of the cultural roots of our country. In my daily coursework, I have really gotten to know my classmates. These are the students with whom I will learn for my entire high school career, two years of which I have already finished. The sense of togetherness provided by a small class size, along with personal attention from our teacher, underscores my belief that Latin is not only a living language, it may be the best language choice for many students. So, for now, this is me… learning a living Latin and loving life.