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LATIN CLASSICS.
FIRST LESSONS IN LATIN, UPON A NEW PLAN,
combining Abstract Rules with a Progressive Series of Practical
Exeroises. By Charles Dexter Cleveland. Stereotype
Edition; used in the Boston Public Latin School.
WALKER'S LATIN READER. The New Latin Reader,
containing the Latin Text for the Purpose of Recitation, accompanied
with a Key, containing the Text, with a Literal and
Free Translation, arranged in such a Manner as to point out the
Difference between the Latin and English Idioms. For the Use
of Beginners in the Study of the Latin Language. By S. C.
Walker. Philadelphia. Fourth Edition, Stereotype.
The translations consist of, Part 1, Familiar Latin Phrases; Part 2, Historiæ
Sacræ; Part 3, Narrationes Selectæ.
To teach the Idiomatic difference of the Latin or Greek languages from
the English—the most difficult part of the labor of learning a language—is
what this method proposes to accomplish, and what, in our opinion, it is assuredly
able to accomplish. We have not a doubt that a clever boy will learn
in one week more words, and more of the idiomatic difference between the English
and the Latin by this book, than he will by the use of a grammar, dictionary,
and the common mode of ancient instruction, in a month.
The mode of teaching after the plan of this book is simply this. 1. It
gives the literal meaning of each root in the original. 2. By means of the
prepositions and auxiliaries, it gives the meaning of each root, as modified by
inflection. 3 It gives a translation of phrases, or idioms by which the true import
of the original and the difference of the idiom are learned with precision.
4. The Latin words are arranged after the English order in the Key. 5. The
pupil is required to translate from the pure Latin text, at the latter part of
the book.
The pupil begins to translate and study grammar at the same time. He
is directed to study, for recitation, a small lesson in grammar; and by the
aid of the Key to prepare for translation a suitable portion of the Latin text.
In this way he is beguiled, without difficulty or pain, into a knowledge of the
first principles of the language, and in a little time, applied to other similar
exercises, will be able to throw away these mechanical aids, and read a
Latin author without them.
—Flint's Western Review.
We regard the method of studying Latin proposed by Mr. Walker as
very decidedly superior to the prevailing one. It is recommended by philosophy
as well as by common sense. It is a mode of instruction calculated
to interest the youngest class of learners, instead of perplexing and fatiguing
them in the manner of the ancient method. It is particularly suited to the
purposes of maternal instruction, and to the use of those advanced beyond
the period of childhood, who may wish to instruct themselves. Lastly, it is
admirably calculated for the purposes of monitorial instruction.
We have already so fully borne testimony to the general merits of the
system, and to the faithful execution of this work in particular, that it is
scarcely necessary to add a cordial recommendation of Mr. Walker's book
to teachers and parents throughout our country.
—Journal of Education.
GILES'S FIRST BOOK IN LATIN, on a New Plan.
LEMPRIERE'S CLASSICAL DICTIONARY, for Schools
and Academies, in which all the indelicate passages are omitted.
(Boston Edition.)
A LIFE OF GEORGE WASHINGTON, in Latin Prose.
By Francis Glass, A. M. Edited by J. N. Reynolds. Highly
recommended by Professors Anthon and Kingsley.
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