Romans Speak for Themselves
by Gilbert Lawall, editor
Reviewed by Martha Robinson
Purchase details: The Romans Speak for Themselves, Gilbert Lawall, editor. $15.97 each for books I and II and $14.97 each for the teacher's handbooks. Paperback. Available from Prentice Hall Publishing. To order call, 1-800-848-9500. Homeschoolers must fill out a form stating that they are homeschool teachers in order to order tests and teacher materials. Please support HomeschoolChristian.com by buying this program from our Amazon affiliate link.
Written as a supplement for Ecce Romani, The Romans Speak for Themselves would be an interesting addition to any Latin program. Using adaptations of primary source material, the program introduces many authors of Roman times and the Latin scholar of later times, Erasmus.
The Romans Speak for Themselves consists of two books of fourteen and eight chapters respectively. The chapters, written by graduate Latin students at University of Massachusetts at Amherst, have an overview on a particular topic from Roman culture in English and then brief adaptations of original materials written by Roman authors on the topic in Latin. Extensive vocabulary is provided next to the Latin reading to explain words not yet introduced in Ecce Romani. Discussion questions follow the culture section, and comprehension questions come after the Latin reading. The books are illustrated with black-and-white line drawings, maps, and photographs. A glossary is included in the back.
The teacher's handbook includes material for both volumes of the student books. Translations are provided for each chapter along with hints for teaching the information. This is a 30 page, staple-bound booklet.
The material selected for The Romans Speak for Themselves may give Christian homeschooling families some concern. Many of the readings portray the seedier side of Roman life: drunkenness, brawling, infidelity and divorce. Other topics include early education, homes for different levels of society, aqueducts, and slavery. One reading from Confessions illustrates Augustine's opposition to gladiatorial shows.
Recommendation: The Romans Speak for Themselves contains fascinating material about Roman life and gives the first or second year Latin student a chance to become familiar with Roman authors. The writings portray the conflict and decadence of Roman culture and will give families with mature students the opportunity to discuss Roman society in light of their values and beliefs. While these selections are not truly primary source material, but rather are adaptations for the newer Latin student, they provide the feel of what was truly happening two thousand years ago.
HomeschoolChristian.com resources related to this review:
Latin Curricula Comparison Chart to help select an introductory or intensive program.
Review of Ecce Romani
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