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Master the basics of a lyrical and useful language Even though most people don't use Latin anymore, it used to be spoken by millions of people from across the ancient world. It later morphed into new languages we still use today! In Latin For Dummies, you'll take a tour through the language of ancient Rome. Beginning with Latin you may already know, like "carpe diem" and "quid pro quo," the book walks you through essential Latin grammar and everyday Latin phrases. It also explores how Latin show more shaped and molded modern languages, including English. In this book, you'll find: - Lessons to learn Latin grammar and vocabulary - Practices for reading, translating, and composing Latin - Tips to recognize commonly confused Latin words Latin For Dummies proves that learning Latin, while challenging, can be fun and exciting too! It's perfect for first timers interested in the ancient language and anyone who wants to learn more about ancient Roman history and culture. show less

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4 reviews
As so many others have pointed out, if you're studying Latin, do not make this your primary tool for learning. However, this is a great resource to include in your studies. Those little bits of trivia and history are great, I would look at this as an exaggerated version of Cliff's Notes or Spark Notes.
It's easy to read, easy to understand, and it isn't muddied with too much explanation. Great for beginners, perhaps not as interesting to advanced learners.
I actually really enjoyed this book, especially if your interest in Latin is derived from an interest in ancient Rome. There are a lot of neat little hints and tid bits in this book and it is easy to read. I would most definitely not recommend this book as a primary source for learning Latin, I think some people do and that is why they give it a bad review. If you have a good reliable text for learning Latin (I started with Wheelocks Latin) then this is a great addition and nice break from the blood and sweat nose to the grind stone studying.
It's highly ironic this book is in the "for Dummies" series. The title would suggest a simple and straightforwardness to the book, when in fact, it's a convulted mess. The author attempts to teach the reader all "nitty gritty" grammar in one chapter, and then moves on to a new chapter for basic greetings. Once the reader has supposedly mastered all grammar, there are entire chapters for subjects such as "Latin in Law."

The random facts scattered throughout are intriguing, but if you really want to learn Latin, give this book a pass.
Maybe another time. Couldn't commit to learning declensions. Enjoyed the pronunciation guide even though I will not retain it.

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Series

Classifications

Genres
Nonfiction, General Nonfiction
DDC/MDS
478.421LanguageLatin & Italic languagesClassical Latin usage (Prescriptive linguistics)
LCC
PA2094.5 .H85Language and LiteratureGreek language and literature. Latin language and literatureLatin philology and language
BISAC

Statistics

Members
371
Popularity
84,283
Reviews
4
Rating
½ (3.45)
Languages
English, French, German
Media
Paper, Ebook
ISBNs
13
UPCs
1
ASINs
3