Roman literature and society underwent profound changes between the Late Republic and the age of Nero, the last of the Julio-Claudian emperors. These two periods are illuminated in fascinating detail by the letters of Cicero and Seneca, whose experiences as politicians, poets, philosophers and experts in rhetoric invite a comparative reading of their work. We will begin with an intensive review of Latin grammar, and will then focus on the careful reading of selected letters of Cicero and Seneca. This course aims primarily to develop fluency in reading Latin and is designed for students who have taken three or four years of Latin in secondary school, or who have completed Latin 101-102. Evaluation will be based on classroom performance, quizzes, a midterm, and a final exam. Prerequisites: Latin 101-102 or the equivalent.