[B-Greek] B-Greek] Learning Greek

John Sanders jfs at jfsanders.com
Thu Jun 14 23:44:01 EDT 2007


I wish to add a few thoughts to this post.
 
Dr. Buth’s program, as I understand it, involves two spheres of learning-immersion (which is studying the language for an extended length of time per day for some period), and an oral-aural basis for instruction.  I believe both of these are very efficient and useful means to acquire any language skill, but the methodology in itself is not magic.  I was involved (as a student) in a language immersion program (6 hours per day, five days per week, 47 weeks).  It is very effective, but not every student in the program became “fluent” in the language.  Although a teacher is not required, a teacher is a useful asset, and a good teacher is a “treasured” asset.  A good program (and text, etc.) helps make the learning process more efficient.  But, in the end, it is the student that makes the difference-and one can name the usual suspects as factors: motivation, inspiration, and perspiration.  Of these, perspiration is the more significant and can even overcome deficiencies in motivation and native talent.
 
To the advice already given, I would add listen to and say Greek as often as one can.  I personally prefer Modern Greek pronunciation (for both philosophical and pragmatic reasons-pragmatic because it is easier to find a speaker of modern Greek who is able to communicate in Greek with another human being (Greek speaking)).  On the Ellopos site, there is a beautiful recording of the Lord’s prayer (Byzantine text).  Excellent voice, good enunciation, wonderful rhythm (in my view, at least), a beautiful piece of art in itself.  
 
 I would also attempt, as Jonathan Robie has written, to say out loud various pieces of Greek, and I would even record such. Listen to your recordings, attempt to improve on them.  If you have found a recording of a speaker whom you like, attempt to emulate that speaker.  
 
Listen, speak, read, and write (if possible with some one who can correct your writing).  It is the active engagement with the language that will help you acquire “fluency”.  The more engagement, the more likely you will acquire skill in that language.
 
Because I have no intention of becoming a grammarian or a linguist, I consider grammars and such as tools to acquire skill in the language.  In that sense, I consider them crutches and the sooner one can dispense with them the better.  If, on the other hand, I had and do have an interest in the mystical workings of the language, then grammar is an interest in itself.  For those whose interest in the language is to read with comprehension, then a grammar is useful only if it helps build that skill set.  But then, I am a minimalist on this subject.
 
I would also leave the English out of the process (to extent it is possible for you).  That is why I like the oral-aural method of learning.  Speaking and listening re-enforces our “Greek” sensibilities.  This way, when we read we are not continuously translating into English.  I also like to read and re-read sections over and over.  I will read, say for instance Luke 1.  A month later I will re-read Luke 1.  I will even take my time going through the chapter.  I re-enforce my vocabulary by reading text itself.  Then in another month or two I will re-read Luke 1 again.  During the re-reading I will re-read sections many times over.  I will record my readings, I will listen to recordings of the passage and listen to my recordings.  I will even take dictation from the recordings.  Do not be bashful about continuously reading the same passage.  Consider it something akin to batting practice.    
 
John Sanders
Suzhou, China
 
 
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