The Renaissance Method for Language Learning

Summary

In this video, the speaker reflects on their transformative experience studying Ancient Greek in Greece through a fully-funded program at Ralston College. They share how learning the language allowed them to engage with classical philosophy and Greek culture in a profound way. The speaker highlights the program's immersive approach, combining language learning with real-life experiences in Greece, as well as the unique pedagogical methods that treat Ancient Greek as a living language. They encourage viewers to apply for the program and discuss the lasting impact it has had on their academic and personal growth.

Takeaways

• 😀 Ralston College offers a fully-funded program to study Ancient Greek in Greece, providing an opportunity for students to engage deeply with the language and culture.
• 😀 The application deadline for the program is in mid-February 2025, and the program is an immersive, intellectually rich experience.
• 😀 The program is fully funded, covering tuition, housing, and providing a monthly stipend, thanks to generous philanthropists.
• 😀 The initial reason for learning Ancient Greek is to access original texts without the distortions or errors of translations.
• 😀 Ancient Greek is considered a language that not only provides access to philosophy but also changes the learner's mindset and connection to a vibrant historical culture.
• 😀 Learning Ancient Greek can transform you into a part of one of the most creative and intellectual civilizations in history, as it shapes how you engage with knowledge.
• 😀 The program is unique in that it is taught in Greece, with students experiencing the places where philosophical thought originated, enhancing their connection to the material.
• 😀 Ralston’s pedagogical approach encourages students to read, speak, write, and listen to Ancient Greek, immersing them in the language rather than just treating it as an academic subject.
• 😀 The method aims to move beyond translations, fostering an intuitive understanding of Ancient Greek, making it a living language, not a dead one.
• 😀 The program is taught by passionate, dedicated educators who embrace the tradition of Ancient Greek and its intellectual legacy, creating an environment where students become deeply immersed in the material.
• 😀 Students spend time touring Greece, exploring historical sites, and even studying in locations like the cave of Pythagoras and the island associated with the Revelation of John, making the program truly experiential.

Q & A

Why did the speaker want to study ancient Greek?

The speaker initially wanted to study ancient Greek for scholarly reasons, inspired by their experience learning classical Chinese. They believed studying ancient Greek would allow them to access Greek philosophy in an unmediated way, avoiding the distortions found in translations.

What makes ancient Greek translations more problematic than those of other languages like French?

Ancient Greek translations can often be highly inaccurate, sometimes even mistranslating key words or concepts. For example, a translation of Plato's 'Republic' incorrectly translated a sentence, altering the meaning of the text, which the speaker noticed by comparing it with the original Greek.

What is the second reason the speaker finds learning ancient Greek valuable?

The second reason is that learning ancient Greek can change a person's identity and relationship with the culture. The speaker believes that studying ancient Greek connects you to one of the most creative civilizations in history, helping you internalize aspects of Greek intellectual and artistic culture.

How does learning ancient Greek change a person's character?

Learning ancient Greek changes a person's character by shifting how they approach knowledge. Just like memorizing Chinese Classics can make one more poetic, learning ancient Greek can embody its culture, transforming the way you think and interact with ideas.

How does Ralston College's program treat ancient Greek as a 'living language'?

Ralston College treats ancient Greek as a living language by encouraging students to speak, listen, write, and engage with it in a variety of ways. The program emphasizes that language is not just about understanding grammar, but about living it, making ancient Greek part of daily life.

What is unique about Ralston College's approach to teaching ancient Greek?

Ralston College’s approach is unique in that it encourages students to speak, write, and listen to ancient Greek as part of the learning process, rather than simply focusing on reading and translation. This approach helps students internalize the language in a more holistic and embodied way.

What role does immersion in Greece play in the Ralston College program?

Immersion in Greece plays a significant role in the Ralston College program, as students study ancient Greek in the places where much of the philosophical thought originated. This adds a layer of experiential learning that makes the knowledge feel more profound and connected to its historical and cultural context.

Why is the Ralston College program considered more 'lived' compared to other programs?

Ralston College's program is considered more 'lived' because it not only involves immersive experiences in Greece but also because it uses a pedagogical method that treats ancient Greek as a living language. Students are encouraged to engage with the language and culture on a deep, personal level, making it an embodied experience.

What is the significance of speaking ancient Greek in the program?

Speaking ancient Greek is significant because it helps students embody the language and gain a deeper, intuitive understanding of the text. The program encourages students to speak and use the language outside of class, which helps make the language more natural and integrated into their thinking.

How does Ralston College's program differ from traditional methods of learning ancient Greek?

Traditional methods of learning ancient Greek often focus on memorizing grammar and vocabulary, then translating texts. Ralston College’s program differs by treating the language as a living entity, emphasizing oral skills, listening, and producing the language to help students understand it in a more immersive and intuitive way.