Schedule, syllabus and examination date

Course content

This course offers an introduction to the various types of poetry encompassed by the term ‘Latin lyric poetry’ as well as their historical and social contexts. It also acquaints students with the language used in the texts under study. We read a selection of lyrical poems written in Latin, with a primary focus on the classical period, particularly the works of authors such as Catullus and Horace (approximately 1200-1500 verses, depending on the level of difficulty). Additionally, we will examine and discuss secondary literature relevant to the texts under examination.

Learning outcome

After completing this course, you will be able to:

  • independently read and translate the selected Latin texts into Norwegian and/or English and interpret them.
  • identify and explain the meter of the selected Latin texts and discuss its peculiarities.
  • identify and analyse the distinctive stylistic features of the author(s) of the Latin texts and elucidate their role in shaping the texts.
  • discuss the development of the genre and provide examples of its main features and evolution.
  • interpret the Latin texts considering relevant historical, literary-historical, literary, and/or cultural aspects.
  • discuss aspects of Latin grammar based on the selected texts.

Admission to the course

Students who are admitted to study programmes at UiO, must each semester register which courses and exams they wish to sign up for in Studentweb.

If you are not already enrolled as a student at UiO, please see our information about admission requirements and procedures.

Formal prerequisite knowledge

(or equivalent knowledge - contact the department if you have studied Latin elsewhere)

Overlapping courses

Teaching

14 two-hours seminars.

We expect you to prepare for the seminars and to participate actively.

In order for you to be allowed to sit for the final examination, the following compulsory tuition activity must be approved by the teacher:

  • Qualifying midterm test

Approved tuition activity is valid also for the next two semesters in which the course is offered.

Examination

Written examination (4 hours).

Written examinations are carried out in the digital examination system Inspera. You must familiarize yourself with the digital examination arrangements in Inspera before your written exam. Read more about digital school exams.

In order for you to qualify for the final examination, all compulsory tuition activities must be approved by the teacher.

Examination support material

No examination support material is allowed.

Language of examination

You may submit your response in Norwegian, Swedish, Danish or English. If you would prefer to have the exam text in English, you may apply to the course administrators.

Grading scale

Grades are awarded on a scale from A to F, where A is the best grade and F is a fail. Read more about the grading system.

More about examinations at UiO

You will find further guides and resources at the web page on examinations at UiO.

Last updated from FS (Felles studentsystem) Oct. 15, 2026 9:26:05 AM

Facts about this course

Level
Bachelor
Credits
10
Teaching
Spring
The course is offered every third spring semester, starting from spring 2026.
Examination
Spring

Contact

Department of Philosophy, Classics, History of Art and Ideas