Research Training Fund report by Nathaniel Hodson (2024, DPhil Theology and Religion)

Thanks to a generous grant from Univ’s Research Training Fund, this summer I was able to attend a Latin Immersion Trip with Oxford Latinitas. This programme was held close to Univ at Jesus College, Oxford, from 3 to 10 August, and so its close proximity to Univ and my residence was convenient and highly economical. Oxford Latinitas is an educational organization dedicated to teaching ancient languages, many of whose instructors and staff are affiliated with the University of Oxford. One defining and unique feature of their instruction, however, is that they teach Latin and Ancient Greek via the “active method”, in which the ancient language is the only language spoken during class. In our Latin classes, for example, our instructor taught grammar, gave instructions, and answered questions exclusively speaking Latin. Students are also required to interact and ask questions in the language. The “active method” reflects pedagogical developments which indicate that students acquire languages most naturally and thoroughly when listening, speaking, writing, and reading, rather than simply reading (as in most Latin instruction today). During the immersion trips this approach is heightened, in that not only classes but also meals, afternoon activities (such as punting), songs, and evening games are done while only speaking Latin.

Such an immersive approach and our morning classwork was of great benefit to my Latin acquisition. During the final night, the more advanced students were required to deliver a Ciceronian style oratio on a topic of their choosing; I delivered a defence of the category “American Cuisine” and a comparison between it and British cuisine, to the latter’s detriment.

This immersion trip in Latin was crucial for the progression of my doctoral studies, which focus on the writings of Saint Augustine of Hippo (354–430) and contemporary political theologies which lay claim to his legacy. In order to make a contribution to such Augustinian scholarship, it is necessary to do work in Augustine’s original Latin texts. Oxford Latinitas’ programme built on my previous studies to solidify my facility in the language. The immersion trip has already allowed me to do research in the original Latin of Augustine’s Enarrationes in Psalmos. This is an enormous help for my doctoral research, particularly at this stage in my DPhil as I transition from the first to second year.

I am very grateful to the Research Training Fund at Univ, as well as the wider support of the College in my academic work. This grant has enabled my participation in a programme which was not only enjoyable and conveniently located, but has allowed a significant advance in my research capabilities at a crucial stage in my DPhil. I am confident I will continue to reap the benefits of this research training as I study ancient Christian texts in the Latin during the remainder of the DPhil, as well throughout my further academic career as a theologian and scholar of religion.

Published: 17 October 2025

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