Teaching Classical Languages Worldwide: Successes, Challenges, and Perspectives (Based on Teaching Classics Worldwide)

Abstract

Our study, Teaching Classical Languages Worldwide: Successes, Challenges, and
Perspectives, examines the global state of Latin and Ancient Greek instruction and explains why
classical language education remains culturally and civically significant. It identifies effective practices,
persistent inequalities, and strategies for sustainable growth and broader participation. The paper builds
primarily on the edited volume by Steven Hunt and John Bulwer, Teaching Classics Worldwide:
Successes, Challenges and Developments, which provides a comparative framework and relevant
international examples for our analysis. Our research also draws on comparative international
scholarship, synthesizing existing studies and experiences concerning curriculum reform, access, and
institutional support. It contributes to ongoing debates about moving from the traditional grammartranslation
method toward cultural and communicative approaches. A comparative, descriptive
framework combines historical review with regional case studies and an examination of policies,
programs, and collaborations across Europe, the United States, Israel, and Australia. The study
highlights increasing curricular diversification, successful outreach initiatives, and productive
partnerships among schools, universities, and civic organizations. Nevertheless, unequal access and
shortages of qualified teachers remain major barriers. Digital technologies enhance engagement,
motivation, and assessment. Overall, the findings guide educators, researchers, and administrators in
shaping equitable, sustainable, and modern models of classical language education worldwide.