The study of modern languages has multiple objectives. It presents to the student vocabulary, idiom, and structure of a foreign language, and at the same time it teaches the student to understand the spoken language and to converse in it, to read well and to write correctly. Also, through the study of cultural differences, modern language courses endeavor to help free students’ thinking from provincialism and narrow-minded world views. Through the study of literature, the student moves beyond the language itself and gains important insight into other civilizations, other times and their ideas.
The objectives of the Classics curriculum are twofold. First, the Department teaches courses in Greek or Latin as a preparation for a professional career where a knowledge of the original languages is essential. Second, the Department teaches courses (requiring no knowledge of Greek or Latin) which set forth significant aspects of classical civilization: its pervasive ideals, political experiences, artistic forms, and literary archetypes. The offerings of the Classics curriculum are designed to provide a student with a unique grasp of the origins of Western Culture. Courses are structured in three units: GREK-Greek Language and Literature; LATN-Latin Language and Literature; CLSS-Greek and Roman Studies.
All incoming students who desire to begin their modern language study on the intermediate level shall present a minimum of two years modern language study with a grade of C or higher.
Modern Language majors interested in international studies and international business should consult the section of the catalog describing Siena’s program in International Studies, Foreign Languages, and Business.
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