On Language: Part 1

Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024 // Forbes Avenue,Interviews

On November 11, 2024, we were joined by Christopher Mark Jones, Professor Emeritus of French & Francophone Studies at Carnegie Mellon University, and Marcie Persyn, Assistant Professor and Director of Undergraduate Studies in the Classics Department of The University of Pittsburgh, for a fascinating discussion of language and culture. Since the conversation went on for over an hour, we present it in two episodes of Forbes Avenue.

In Part 1 of our discussion, we talk about language learning issues, translation of artistic works, Americans’ aptitude for learning other languages, ancient Greek and Roman interactions as shown by their languages (Greek & Latin), and the interaction of language and thought. Along the way, you’ll learn what the Roman poet Lucretius really thought of Latin, and how Prof. Jones learned Portuguese in an unusual way.

The entire conversation is spirited and enjoyable: our guests, Prof. Jones & Prof. Persyn, provide valuable insight into how language and cultures interact with each other. Tune in! You’ll be glad you did!

Listen to the interview: Christopher Jones & Marcie Persyn, Part 1

Credits:
Riona Duncan, co-host, co-researcher
Richard Gordon, co-host, co-researcher, audio engineer, audio editor
Recorded November 11, 2024; WRCT debut December 3, 2024