This module is an intensive introduction to the ancient Greek language, intended for complete beginners. It introduces students to the script, grammar and vocabulary of Classical Greek. Although the focus is on Attic Greek (the language used by writers such as Thucydides, Plato and Aristophanes), this provides the basis for the study of other dialects (e.g. the Ionic of Herodotus) or Greek of different periods (e.g. Homeric, Hellenistic or Byzantine Greek). Students will learn to read and translate simple Greek sentences, with the ultimate aim of reading ancient works in the original language. The module provides the basis for further study of Greek in HS3324 Reading Greek 2.

• read and translate short Greek sentences without the aid of dictionaries.
• describe (parse) simple grammatical forms.
• describe the fundamental constructions of Greek syntax.
• understand the basic working of the Greek language and how it compares to English.
• develop an intuitive understanding of the meaning of Greek passages within a context.
• read and translate fluently suitably adapted passages of original Greek prose with the aid of dictionaries.

30 classes; independent study

Classes typically include reading of new text, discussion of grammatical features, exercises and correction of homework.

Independent study enables students to consolidate their learning. Homework exercises are set each week and discussed in class as necessary. The learning of a language is a skill that can only be developed if practised methodically, like playing a musical instrument. Students are therefore expected to complete the homework regularly, and discussion of this work forms a part of the learning experience.

• analysing written evidence in a first or second language
• comparing structures of different languages and mindsets of different cultures
• using dictionaries and grammar handbooks effectively
• writing correct and enjoyable English with an awareness of the richness of its grammar and vocabulary
• working independently and managing own time effectively

The module will be assessed through two class tests (25% each) and an exam (50%). There will also be a formative class test early in the semester.

The class tests will consist of a number of short Greek sentences to be translated, as well as parsing, exercises of manipulation of the language (e.g. transform from singular into plural or from one tense to another, etc.), plus some translation from English into Greek. The use of dictionaries is not allowed in class tests, so students must be aware that they have to learn the prescribed vocabulary beforehand. The building of a working vocabulary in any language requires time and will necessarily have to be spread over the course.

The exam will consist of an unseen passage of continuous Greek prose (typically 110–120 words) to be translated with the help of a dictionary.

Type of assessment = CT

% Contribution = 0

Title = formative class test​

Duration = 50 minutes
(if applicable)

Approx. date of Assessment = autumn semester

Type of assessment = CT

% Contribution = 25

Title = class test​ 1

Duration = 50 minutes
(if applicable)

Approx. date of Assessment = autumn semester

Type of assessment = CT

% Contribution = 25

Title = class test​ 2

Duration = 50 minutes
(if applicable)

Approx. date of Assessment = autumn semester

Type of assessment = EXAU

% Contribution = 50

Title = Reading Greek 1

Duration = 1.5 hours
(if applicable)

Approx. date of Assessment = autumn semester

The opportunity for reassessment in this module

Students who fail the module will normally be expected to take a resit exam (1.5 hours) in the summer resit period.

The syllabus will cover sections 1–4 of the textbook, namely:

• alphabet and pronunciation
• inflection and use of cases
• nouns and adjectives of the three declensions
• regular and contract verbs, active and middle: present indicative; present imperative; present participles
• some irregular verbs
• prepositions and particles

Essential reading and resource list

All students should have their own copy of the textbook:

JACT (Joint Association of Classical Teachers), Reading Greek, Cambridge University Press (second edition, 2007)

Vol. 1: Text and vocabulary

Vol. 2: Grammar and exercises

Background reading and resource list

J. Morwood and J. Taylor (eds.), Pocket Oxford Classical Greek Dictionary (2002) (or any other equivalent dictionary)

J. Morwood, Oxford Grammar of Classical Greek (2001)

Relevant material is also accessible via Learning Central. In addition, further material (mostly synoptic tables useful for revision) is distributed in the classes and should be kept since it offers in a schematic way topics presented rather discursively in the textbook.