Latin’s Lasting Legacy: The Ancient Roman Language in the Modern World

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Few civilizations in history have left a legacy like ancient Rome. They have given us the basis of our art and architecture, our engineering and education, and in countries like the US, even the political framework that structures our society. Monty Python summed this up best in their iconic sketch from the Life of Brian: “All right, but apart from the sanitation, the medicine, education, wine, public order, irrigation, roads, a fresh water system, and public health, what have the Romans ever done for us?”

But one of the most lasting legacies of this ancient civilization is the ancient Roman language of Latin.

Latin is, by definition, a dead language, meaning that though people might still learn it, nobody speaks it as their mother tongue. The ancient Roman language lives on in part through the Romance languages which sprung from it — Italian, French, Spanish, Portuguese, and Romanian. But the only people who speak it in its ancient or medieval form are the priests, cardinals, and popes of the Vatican or a dwindling number of students, often from private schools. 

But while Latin might be dead, it is very much alive in how it continues to influence modern culture, through film, art, and literature. Once you start looking you’ll find it everywhere: from ad hoc common expressions to scientific terms, legal terminologies, and even pop culture references.

This blog takes a look at Latin’s continuing influence on modern civilization, including its impact on language, science, law, mythology, literature and even tourism. 

Latin Phrases in the Modern Language

Latin phrases have effortlessly merged into everyday speech and writing, giving our communication a sense of cultural richness and continuity. Many of these Latin idioms became part of our language without us being aware of their historic origins. 

Exhort someone close to you to make the most of a moment and you might say carpe diem which means “pluck the day”. Offer someone something to smooth over a business deal and you might suggest a quid pro quo (“something for something”) — you scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours. 

In your advertising or marketing communication, you might offer up a caveat (“beware”): our energy drink may be the best on the market but it won’t transform you into a marathon runner overnight. Or you might be thinking of voting at the next elections for the Monster Raving Loony Party because you’re sick of the status quo (“the existing state of affairs”).

Exploring the meanings and historical contexts of these Latin idioms not only enriches our knowledge of the language but also connects us to the ancient Romans who created them.

The Importance of the Roman Language in Science and Medicine

The influence of the ancient Roman language extends far beyond popular phrases and into the fields of health and science. Latin is the foundation of scientific and medical terminology, serving as a universal language for researchers and professionals worldwide. 

Anyone who’s written a school or university paper will have used some Latin terminology. The most common example is e.g. (exempli gratia) which literally translates as “for the sake of an example.” Then there’s i.e. (id est) which literally means “that is.” Finally, we have etc. (et cetera) which we most commonly translate as “and the rest”.

The Roman language continues to play an important role in scientific and academic fields, enabling clarity and precision in communication, from taxonomy and anatomical words to pharmaceutical terminology.

Pop Culture and Roman Mythology

Roman mythology is prevalent in modern pop culture, affecting literature, film, and other types of entertainment. The gods and goddesses of ancient Rome, like Jupiter, Venus, and Mars, continue to inspire and impress audiences in modern narratives. 

Among the pantheon of Roman gods was the Capitoline Triad of Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva who had their own temple on Rome’s Capitoline Hill. The Capitoline was the religious and political focal point of the ancient Rome and lent its name to Washington DC’s Capitol Hill: the political center of the USA.

Another famous hill was the Palatine (Palatium, in Latin). Home to Rome’s rich and famous and the site of their villas and palaces, palatium has also supplied us with our word ‘palace’.

Just as the Romans borrowed freely from Greek mythology, so in turn does Roman mythology keep inspiring modern authors, screenwriters, filmmakers, and artists — connecting us to the Romans’ rich mythological history through its timeless themes and archetypal figures.

Latin Literary Influences 

Throughout history, the Roman language has made a significant impact on literature. Latin influences can be seen in a variety of genres, from classical works to modern fiction. 

Renowned authors such as William Shakespeare and John Milton used Latin terms and references in their writings, providing depth and cultural resonance. Authors such as Dan Brown have incorporated Latin references in best-selling works such as The Da Vinci Code, bridging the gap between ancient Rome and modern narrative.

Legal Terminology in Latin

The influence of the Roman language is most notably visible in the legal sphere, where Latin-based terminology is everywhere (or, to use a Latin-based word, pervasive). 

Some of ancient Rome’s best-known writers were jurists and lawyers (think Cicero, Pliny, Ulpian). Legal practitioners often use Latin words and idioms to convey specific meanings and build a common language across jurisdictions. 

If, during a debate, you attack the person rather than the subject, you could be accused of making an ad hominem attack. If you are talking about something which has a legal basis you might refer to it as de jure while if it is grounded in fact, but not necessarily legality, you might refer to it as de facto.

The continued use of Latin in legal terminology indicates its historical importance and continues to define the legal profession, emphasizing the Roman language’s long-lasting imprint on today’s legal system.

Here’s a full list of Latin legal terms

Bringing Us Closer to Ancient Rome’s History

When we think of ancient Rome, we envision great structures, interesting history, and cultural heritage. In reality, the importance of Latin in tourism is sometimes overlooked. 

Latin holds a significant influence on tourism, particularly in regions that were once part of the vast Roman Empire. This classical language not only acts as a linguistic key to understanding the rich history and culture of ancient Rome but also enhances the overall tourism experience for travelers.

Learning Latin enables visitors to interpret inscriptions, plaques, and architectural aspects present in ancient Roman monuments. Visitors obtain a better understanding of the historical context and significance of these constructions by comprehending the meanings behind Latin texts. Being able to read some Latin allows travelers to connect with the stories and narratives hidden within these ancient artifacts, whether through the inscriptions on the walls of the Colosseum in Rome or the exquisitely carved stone tablets of Pompeii.

The Roman language’s significance stretches beyond site visits and communication. Latin is essential in the academic study of Roman Empire history, archaeology, and literature. Latin is the language of many scholarly writings, original sources, and research materials. 

While few outside the Vatican can speak fluent Latin, tourists who can read the ancient Roman language can access original writings, read historic manuscripts, and interact with the intellectual community. This connection to Latin allows travelers to gain a better knowledge of Roman culture, customs, and intellectual achievements, allowing them to dig into the complexities of ancient times.

If you like the sound of learning Latin, check out this YouTube series based on the book of the same name. 

Welcome to So You Really Want to Learn Latin

Learning Latin is tricky, but rewarding. And gives you a huge advantage in learning the Romance languages which sprung from it: Italian, French, Spanish, Portuguese, and Romanian. 

Discover Rome with Carpe Diem Tours

Ready to carpe diem and dive deeper into Rome’s rich history? Join Carpe Diem’s Rome Tours and discover the fascinating connection between Rome’s captivating past and the Roman language of Latin. 

Immerse yourself in the ancient inscriptions of the Roman Forum, decipher historic texts in the Capitoline Museums, and engage with expert guides who bring the language to life. Whether you’re a language enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about the Roman Empire, Carpe Diem Tours offers an unforgettable experience that will enhance your understanding and appreciation of Rome’s cultural heritage. 

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Alexander Meddings

Alexander Meddings is a professional copywriter and postgraduate in Roman history from the University of Oxford. After graduating with his MPhil, he moved to Florence and then Rome to carry out his research on the ground and pursue his passion at the source. He now works in travel, as a writer and content consultant, and in education as a university lecturer and translator.