Story by: Dasha Lisitsina (Yr 12)

On Friday 7 March, sixteen Yr 12 Latinists enjoyed a study trip to Oxford University, where they participated in discussions based on their exam texts, Tacitus’ ‘The Annals of Imperial Rome’, Cicero’s Pro Caelio and Virgil’s ‘ Aeneid’.

The talk with Professor Andrew Lintott (Worcester College), an expert on Ancient History, provided us with a deeper insight not only into Tacitus’ style of writing and the ‘ Annals’ as a whole, but also into the Roman army, ancient historical writing and the reign of Tiberius.  Llewelyn Morgan cast a new light on Virgil’s ‘Aeneid’, analysing it in relation to contemporary events and in relation to Homer’s works.

The discussions were lively and fascinating; both speakers brought the literature to life and reminded the Classicists that the texts should be considered as being so much more than merely examination texts. 

Furthermore, we were also fortunate enough to visit some of the colleges and, due to the beautiful weather, see them in their full glory; time was even found for a team competition, finding and deciphering Latin inscriptions scattered across the town centre.