Though not a Classical writer, Leo the Great was highly acclaimed of for his Cursus Leonicus and sermo humilis which have influenced subsequent Latinists in their writing style. However, there is scanty information related to the topic. Could anyone tell me why his style is so unique? Since I find reading writings by Classical authors a bit boring at times, how should I learn from Leo the Great and later on Augustine as a stepping stone towards Classical Latin?
Thanks a lot for your generous help!
There is a powerful delivery of the homilies of St. Leo by Fr. Reginald Foster. However, some bits are missing. I added the missing parts (although I’m a far worse reader).
I’m just an amateur, but I find St. Leo’s style rich and terse at the same time. In a few words he delves very deeply into Christological theology with crystalline clarity. What a refreshing difference from the politically correct, rambling tripe of so many of today’s pastors!
If by using them as “stepping stone” to Classical Latin, you mean that they provide easier Latin that would prepare you for Classical Latin, then I am not that convinced.
Augustine never really struck me as easier than Cicero, quite the contrary I would say.
Well, I for one find your recordings very pleasant. I downloaded the Confessions some time ago (and the Imitation more recently) and listen to them regularly.
Thank you, kind sir.
Example of stilus Leoninus
Sermo sancti Leonis Papae.
Sermo 1. de Nativitate Domini.
Salvator noster, dilectissimi, hodie natus est: gaudeamus. Neque enim fas est locum esse tristitiae, ubi natalis est vitae: quae consumpto mortalitatis timore, nobis ingerit de promissa aeternitate laetitiam. Nemo ab huius alacritatis participatione secernitur. Una cunctis laetitiae communis est ratio: quia Dominus noster peccati mortisque destructor, sicut nullum a reatu liberum reperit, ita liberandis omnibus venit. Exsultet sanctus, quia appropinquat ad palmam: gaudeat peccator, quia invitatur ad veniam: animetur Gentilis, quia vocatur ad vitam. Dei namque Filius secundum plenitudinem temporis, quam divini consilii inscrutabilis altitudo disposuit, reconciliandam auctori suo naturam generis assumpsit humani, ut inventor mortis diabolus, per ipsam, quam vicerat, vinceretur.