Latin and Ancient Greek in teaching Italian to university students of Archaeology and Art History in Germany

Abstract

Over the centuries, Italian used in the Arts has strongly influenced other European languages, preserving and transmitting the heritage of the classical languages. These characteristics of the Italian language are an advantage when teaching Italian at university. Students of Art History and Archaeology have knowledge in Latin and Ancient Greek as well as in one or two modern languages. Through linguistic activities and teaching materials inspired by plural approaches, with explicit references to classical languages, it is possible to deal with lexical, syntactic and discursive aspects of the ‘language of art’. In this way, learners' prior knowledge is activated, linguistic comparisons are fostered and learning is enhanced.