Latin in Modern Fiction

Hoffmann’s study aims to show that Latin remains a very strong presence in modern culture, even though many cultural critics and linguists many years ago proclaimed it a dead language. Hoffmann, himself a Latin teacher, would like to see the language flourish and be taught at schools and universities, but the fact remains that Latin is slowly disappearing from our lives, from medicine and other fields of science, not to mention the Catholic church liturgy. The young generation no longer understands many well-known proverbs and sayings in Latin, which were easily recognizable and commonly used by their parents. Although Hoffmann insists that Latin is not a dead language, it is easy to notice that its position is no longer what it used to be.

In his reference study, Hoffmann wants to make the reader aware of how deeply rooted was the presence of Latin in the twentieth-century literature and culture. The author selects several authors representing different sub-periods in modern literature, and meticulously shows the ways and goals of using Latin in fiction. He does not focus on mainstream literature but explores other genres such as detective fiction and literary western to demonstrate that Latin was not restricted to high brow writing and that it crossed all genre borders.

[…] Hoffmann’s volume is a solid reference study. What makes it different from most other volumes of its kind is that it is also an excellent read. Likely, the book’s readers will not merely study entries on the authors they are interested in, but – as each discussed author has its unique way of using Latin - will read the entire book the way one reads and exciting novel – chapter by chapter. Although the chances of restoring Latin’s popularity are almost nonexistent, thanks to Hoffmann younger readers may at least learn how important the Latin language has been in Western civilisation development.

Dr. Jerzy Durczak

Professor Emeritus

Maria Curie-Sklodowska University, Lublin, Poland

Hoffmann’s book is an absorbing volume, full of fascinating names, precious data and keen observations; a convincing testimony to the significance and exceptional role of Latin in contemporary culture. And what a great treat for me! I enjoyed seeing my Latin (Doc Charlie Riggs’ Latin) spelled out and explained. And…though I’m still very active at Penn State, after all these years, I never knew the motto was “Making Life Better.” How mundane!

Paul Levine

Author of “Cheater’s Game”

Very interesting and impressive!

Joseph Wambaugh

[…] This impressive range of authors (totaling forty-six in all) and their texts—all of which contain significant Latin quotations—is made even more remarkable by the addition of the 108 authors and their works listed in the appendix.

[…] It is a solid reference work and, therefore, a useful resource for students and educators at both the high school and secondary level, as well as for any other person with an interest in the Latin language. This work also benefits from having been written in very readable prose. All the Latin references are fully translated and cogently explained.

Kristian L. Lorenzo

The Meadows School

(Extract from book review appearing on 'The Classical Journal-Online', 2022.07.01)

[...] The book offers readers a delightful survey of authors, particularly English and American, who have incorporated Latin into their writing. […] No prior knowledge of Latin or modern fiction is needed to find the book enjoyable. This reference book is great for fans of literature and classics, especially film aficionados.

[Extract from book review on ‘Rhea Classical Review’, Oct 10 2024. Reviewer: Garrett Dome]