Latin and Ancient Greek are often branded 'dead languages', but are in fact alive and well in the medical field: over CLASSICS 90% of English medical terms are derived from Latin or Ancient Greek. This course aims to explore the Latin and Ancient Greek roots of common medical terms across organ systems and diseases, with a focus on how these terms and their origins have shaped medical practice throughout history. Whether your interests lie in the ancient world or in the operating room, this course demonstrates what each can reveal about the other by exploring the rich interplay between language, history, and science.
1 units · Medical Option (Med-Ltr-CR/NC)
Latin and Ancient Greek are often branded 'dead languages', but are in fact alive and well in the medical field: over 90% of English medical terms are derived from Latin or Ancient Greek. This course aims to explore the Latin and Ancient Greek roots of common medical terms across organ systems and diseases, with a focus on how these terms and their origins have shaped medical practice throughout history. Whether your interests lie in the ancient world or in the operating room, this course demonstrates what each can reveal about the other by exploring the rich interplay between language, history, and science.
Offered in Winter 2026 at Stanford University.