Voce Alta

English explanation of this website

The Latin words voce alta mean out loud. This title of the website indicates our endeavor: to cultivate Latin as a living language, for that is how it is best learned. One can learn modern languages naturally by immersion in speaking, listening, writing and reading. For Latin this is more difficult but still possible. To this end, Voce Alta provides resources to engage not just the eyes but the ears as well.

Though superior to reading alone, such engagement is still passive. To master a language, one must also develop the active capacities of speaking and writing. For this, someone must receive what is spoken or written. Where would you find such people today? I recommend attending a conference of the Family of St. Jerome (in Latin: Familia Sancti Hieronymi. English Constitution available.), which is a group that promotes living Latin. These week-long annual conferences or Cenacula are deeply Catholic but open to anyone. They are usually held in North and Central America. Reading out loud (voce alta!) will also help develop your active capacity for Latin.

This site is also intended for those who already understand spoken Latin, for the deepening of their faith, the maintenance of their language skills and their enjoyment.

How to use the readings (Lectiones) of this website

A simple way to begin using the readings of this site is to simultaneously listen to and read a text. Notice that web links are provided for online texts if they exist. This method engages both passive language faculties at once: listening and reading. Repetition is also important, for you will understand more each time you listen to a recording. Eventually you will be able to understand what you hear without any aid. The absolute beginner in Latin, of course, will need other resources such as the Course on the Living Latin Language, which includes a textbook and accompanying cassette tapes.

Is this whole website available in English?

No, because the purpose of this site is to promote living Latin.