Spanish vs Latin

experientiadocet
Sun, 15 Jul 2012 19:14:15 +0000

Take Spanish. If you’re going to enjoy taking both, then you may as well take the one that isn’t going to hurt you in admissions.

Some people (yourself included) say that Spanish will be more practical long-term… that’s probably true, but it may not be. Having a strong understanding of Latin will make learning all Romance languages infinitely easier (Spanish included), so if you’re passionate about language it’s a worthwhile endeavor. It also will most definitely improve your vocabulary and grasp of English. If you’re valuing Latin based on how commonly it’s spoken around the world, you’re doing it wrong.

I wouldn’t concern yourself with Latin’s difficulty, though (if it matters to you). Latin really gets difficult once you start reading actual Latin (i.e. historical)-- that doesn’t happen until year three in most curricula. First couple years of Latin aren’t bad… in fact, Latin I was my easiest class freshman year, and I am by no means gifted when it comes to language.

EDIT: I realize I just talked up Latin a ton even though I suggested Spanish, heheh. I just felt inclined to defend my foreign language of choice. In all likelihood, you’ll get more out of Spanish.