How did Greek speakers learn Latin? How did the Celts of early Roman Britain learn Latin? And how can we know? Professor Eleanor Dickey FBA, the world’s leading expert on language learning in antiquity, offers a unique opportunity to find out – plus a chance to learn or brush up on some Latin yourself, trying out the ancient methods.
About the workshop
One day workshop
Learn about ancient Latin textbooks from the person who discovered them
Try for yourself what learning the ancient way is like
Use (replicas of) ancient materials including wax tablets and papyrus
Equally suitable for those with and without prior experience of Latin learning
Set in the unique surroundings of Butser Ancient Farm’s historic buildings
Eleanor Dickey is Professor of Classics at the University of Reading and the world’s leading expert on language learning in antiquity. She has published the academic bestseller Learning Latin the Ancient Way and ten other books, as well as founding and directing the Reading Ancient Schoolroom. Eleanor has taught Latin and related subjects at Columbia University in New York, the University of Ottawa in Canada, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität in Munich, Sorbonne University in Paris, Leiden University, and the University of Exeter.
This workshop is offered in partnership with the Reading Ancient Schoolroom, an educational charity started at the University of Reading in 2014 with the aim of bringing Roman schools to life and sharing them with today’s children. The ancient schoolroom will be in residence at Butser’s Roman villa from 26-31 August 2025, offering a range of workshops and drop-in activities.
Included in your ticket
Entrance to the farm, a day’s tuition and expertise, and the use of replica ancient learning materials.
workshop info
Please inform us at time of booking whether you have any prior knowledge of Latin, and if so how much.
Please wear sensible clothing and footwear for this workshop. Lunch is not included, although sandwiches (subject to availability), hot and cold drinks, and snacks are sold in our gift shop. You’re also welcome to bring a picnic if you prefer!
Reasonably good eyesight and hearing are necessary to use ancient learning methods.
This workshop is intended for adults, but suitable for ages 14+. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Accompanying adults must also buy a workshop ticket themselves.
If you have any mobility concerns, special requirements, or other questions, please contact workshops@butserancientfarm.co.uk for help!