Policy concerning the (mis-)use of translations in Greek 350

Reading Ancient Greek literature in translation is not categorically bad. In fact, I will ask you to read some passages in English this semester. There are, however, many reasons for you not to consult translations to prepare for translating Greek in this course.They include the following: Presumably you are trying to learn Greek (and to learn to use the tools for learning Greek); you are not just trying to provide translations of speeches by Greek orators, Plato, and Aristophanes (there are plenty of good ones). At this stage, consulting published translations is unlikely to help you to learn Greek. Producing translations in class or on exams that you have generated by consulting published translations is, in effect, presenting someone else's work as your own—in other words, a violation of the principles of academic responsibility. Also,writing out your own translations and studying them to prepare for an exam or recitation in class is not likely to promote the growth of your skills in Greek. It is more likely to lead to your memorizing your own translations. It is also the waste of precious time that you could use to reread a passage. So, unless otherwise instructed, do not consult any translation of the passages in Greek that you are to translate for class. If you have difficulties, turn to the many tools at your disposal, and ask questions in class or consult me outside of class.