The Myth of the "Dead Language"

At Aeterna Poesis, we have qualms with anyone who deems Latin dead. Though the language of Ancient Rome may have fallen out of fashion in terms of verbal communication, Latin writing, specifically Latin poetry, has an indefinite lifespan. The words of Catullus, Ovid, Horace, Virgil, and more are not only time capsules for the thoughts and philosophies of centuries prior, but grapple with issues, questions, and emotions that transcend Ancient Rome. As long as humans have existed, we have been trying to find ways to communicate with each other. And although we may no longer speak Latin in our everyday lives, we can still reap extraordinary benefits from engaging with Roman poets.

Colosseum Then and Now. Image Credits: History of the Colosseum - Location, Construction and Use

At Aeterna Poesis, we strive to explore the world of Latin poetry and share our insights with fellow enthusiasts. Our blog features detailed analyses of famous (and less well-known) Latin poems, dissecting how these authors use different rhetorical and literary devices to deliver their message. By delving into the nuances of each verse, we aim to start and/or add to the conversation around the poets' intentions and the emotions they sought to convey.

In addition to showcasing these Latin poems, our blog also highlights the authors themselves, providing brief biographical sketches. Context matters, and though the poetry can stand alone, learning more about the people who wrote it allows one to gain a richer understanding.

When exploring Aeterna Poesis, you will also run into sections dedicated to rhetorical device definitions and Latin word meanings, helping you to navigate the complexities of poetic language with ease. Through these resources, we aim to empower you to engage deeply with texts both inside and outside the scope of this blog.

Ultimately, our goal at Aeterna Poesis is to foster a vibrant community of Latin poetry lovers who share a passion for these timeless verses. Whether you are an expert in Latin or don't know "ego" from "tu," we invite you to join us on this journey. The only requirement? Acknowledgement that the Latin language is very, very much alive.