FFL, Lesson VIII Question

[New2Latin]

On the pronunciation CD -imus is pronounced with a "long e" sound, however when amavimus is pronounced the ending suddenly has a "short i" sound. When reciting other verbs in the first conjugation, would I use the "short i" sound every time?

Thanks for your help.

[tanya]

Hello.

The 'i' should be a long 'e' sound, but sometimes when the teacher is focusing on the endings, it is easy to change the pronunciation slightly. We also have a tendency when teaching to put the emphasis on the final endings - when it shouldn't be - because we are teaching the endings. I wouldn't be overly concerned about the pronunciation since Latin isn't a spoken language. The goal of the recitation is for reinforcement of the grammar, not to become an expert linguist in Latin. I doubt any of us will run into an ancient Roman to converse with - though it would be fun!

Tanya

[New2Latin]

Hello.

The 'i' should be a long 'e' sound, but sometimes when the teacher is focusing on the endings, it is easy to change the pronunciation slightly.

Thank you, Tanya. I really appreciate this board to be able to ask my simple question. I love the way Latin is presented in FF and am delighted that MP has come out with this new series.