Latin Classes Saturnalia, Dec. 17-25

Latin Classes Saturnalia, Dec. 17-25 Dr. McGay p. 1 Libellus Making Project In addition to sigillaria (statuettes) and cerei (waxen candles), the Romans often gifted each other libelli or small scrolls of poetry and other bits of literature. So, each of us will make a libellus with actual Latin on it and, while shouting Io Saturnalia !, give it to a fellow classmate. It is worth 3 homeworks. DUE ON MONDAY – 12/22

A. First, we need to make a blank scroll, which should have the following components: 1. carta: a piece of paper, no larger than 8 ½ x 11, to be cut in half “hamburger style.” Glue or tape the two pieces of paper together. 2. umbilici: two sticks with knobs on which the carta is to be wound. In ancient times, the umbilicus was made out of wood or ivory. 3. lora: leather straps used to tie the roll up, but we can use string or shoelaces 4. membranae: parchment wrapper to protect the roll: an ancient type of dust jacket

B. Secondly, we need to write some Latin on it. Choose a Latin phrase by making a search of the Internet. Several websites have collected Latin phrases and mottoes: (e.g., http://wordinfo.info/words/index/info/view_unit/3283/?letter=M&spage=7 ) It should have the following: 1. The phrase or quote should be at least 4 words in length (or you can do 2 shorter ones) 2. The phrase should be clean, not too violent, hopefully witty, poignant and profound. 3. Before attaching the cartae to the umbilici, write the Latin out in your best calligraphic penmanship on Carta A, and give the name of the ancient author or ancient source. Also, give an English translation for the quote on Carta B. 4. Attach the cartae to the umbilici so that the libellus may be unraveled horizontally with the words written on the inside, not on the outside.

 Umbilicus Umbilicus 

Carta A Carta B

[Latin] [English Translation and Citation]

ab ovo usque ad mala “From the egg to the apples” i.e., from start to finish

- Horace (Satires I.3 lines 6-7) Latin Classes Saturnalia, Dec. 17-25 Dr. McGay p. 2