Why are Oxford graduations conducted in latin?
University graduations are more than just ceremonies; they are cultural rituals rooted in history and tradition. The choice of language, particularly Latin, can significantly shape the experience and meanings of these events.
Oxford and Cambridge: Contrasting graduation traditions
Two of the world's most prestigious universities, Oxford and Cambridge, offer contrasting yet equally captivating graduation ceremonies. While both institutions share a rich history and academic excellence, their graduation traditions diverge notably.
Since the founding of the University of Oxford in 1096, its graduation ceremonies are renowned for their Latin-heavy format. Latin, a language often associated with the classical world, is used in various aspects of the ceremony, from the formal procession to the conferral of degrees.
This deliberate use of Latin is not merely a quaint tradition, it serves a deeper purpose. It underscores the university's connection to its historical roots, which emphasises the enduring value of a classical education and scholarship.
On the other hand, Cambridge University, while also very traditional, takes a slightly different approach from the former. While Latin is still used in certain parts of the ceremony, the emphasis is more on English. This shift reflects a more contemporary perspective, balancing tradition with accessibility and arguably a ‘friendlier’ appeal to the mass audience.
The relevance of latin in modern academia and beyond
The use of Latin in academic ceremonies, particularly at Oxford, is often misunderstood as an elitist practice. However, it is crucial to recognise the language's vital role in preserving intellectual heritage and fostering a sense of community among scholars.
- Latin has been the lingua franca of academia for centuries, facilitating the exchange of ideas across cultures and time periods.
The Latin language remains relevant to the modern world, and indeed, is in regular use, even outside of the Vatican City. It may be a surprise to many that Latin is the foundation for many legal and medical terms, especially in terminology used in anatomy, biology, pharmacology, and law. It is also the foundation of many European languages that people speak today.
Preserving cultural heritage through language: Guildhawk’s role
Guildhawk, with its linguist expertise, were once called upon to translate a speech into Latin for the King of Jordan ahead of a meeting with the Pope. Like all translation work, the linguists not only engaged in accurate translation, but they also applied their cultural and contextual awareness to address any possible nuances within the texts.
- These projects, while challenging due to the language's complexity and rarity, highlight the cultural importance of preserving and understanding historical languages.
By incorporating Latin into their graduation ceremonies, universities like Oxford demonstrate a commitment to academic excellence and cultural and linguistic heritage. The solemnity of such occasions is a testament to the significance of higher education, especially as universities strive to broaden access and opportunity to the wider international community.
The maintenance of linguistic and cultural excellence sits at the heart of everything that Guildhawk does, ensuring that the richness and diversity of languages continue to be celebrated and preserved.
