High School Language Arts

Ancient Literature investigates timeless human questions: What makes a leader? How does war affect the soul? What is the good life? Students explore these themes through the lens of Greek, Jewish, and Roman history and storytelling. The course emphasizes the examination of thematic and rhetorical construction, helping students build reasoning skills to create original thought and defend truth, goodness, and beauty. In Classical Composition, students focus on the Chreia/Maxim Stage, developing thesis statements based on historical figures and wisdom.

This interdisciplinary course weaves together history, literature, and writing to bring the Middle Ages to life. Students explore the era's foundational developments—from Gothic architecture and universities to the rise of merchant banking and ocean travel. Through primary texts and literature like Beowulf and The Canterbury Tales, students witness the collapse of the Empire, the conversion of barbarian tribes, and the rich intellectual life of the period, setting the stage for the Renaissance and Reformation.

This course empowers students to overcome the fear of public speaking and develop effective communication tools. The ultimate goal is to equip them to share the most important message of all: Christ and His Church. Additionally, students learn practical strategies for spontaneous prayer and receive training in the ministry of lectoring.

Students journey through the evolution of British literature, understanding its profound influence on the American tradition. The course equips students with advanced literary analysis skills, enabling them to evaluate texts, draw evidence-based conclusions, and articulate their insights effectively. To deepen their appreciation of the canon, students independently read selected works from major literary eras each quarter, expanding their knowledge beyond the classroom curriculum.

This course explores the rich tapestry of American writing, from early exploration narratives to modern masterpieces. Students analyze a variety of forms—including essays, poetry, short stories, and novels—discussing literary style, device, and purpose. Special emphasis is placed on Catholic writers and their contributions to our literary heritage, as well as using the universal truths of the faith to analyze secular works. The year culminates in a comprehensive project analyzing the works of a single American author.