To the editor:

I had the privilege of taking Latin at Lawrence High from 1992 to 1995 with Anne Shaw. I learned so much about language, history, literature and philosophy in that class! Latin and Roman culture continue to shape our lives in so many ways; taking Latin in high school enabled me to see those influences rather than simply being subjected to them. In retrospect, having Latin on my transcript probably helped me get into Princeton University, as well, a transformative experience, and now I’m a professional historian, so knowing some Latin is essential in my line of work. Indeed, if I hadn’t had the opportunity to study Latin in high school, my life might have turned out quite differently.

Not to mention that quidquid latine dictum sit altum videtur (“anything said in Latin sounds more profound”).

Emily Winerock,

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania