1. Life
Albert George Latham's life was marked by extensive education and a dedicated academic career.
1.1. Birth and Childhood
Albert George Latham was born in 1864. Details of his specific family background and childhood environment are not extensively documented, but his later academic pursuits suggest a strong foundation in languages and literature from an early age.
1.2. Education
Latham pursued a comprehensive education across multiple European institutions. He studied at the University of London, and furthered his linguistic and literary knowledge at universities in Bonn, Caen, Paris, and Florence. This diverse academic background provided him with a deep understanding of various European languages and cultures, which would later define his professional career.
1.3. Early Career
Latham began his professional journey in 1893 when he joined the staff at Newcastle University as a lecturer. His initial teaching responsibilities focused on French and Italian, laying the groundwork for his future specialization in modern languages.
2. Academic Career and Achievements
Latham's academic career was distinguished by his pioneering role at Newcastle University, his deep specialization, and his prolific translation and writing activities.
2.1. Professor at Newcastle University
After serving as a lecturer in French and Italian, Albert George Latham was appointed as the first full professor of Modern Languages at Newcastle University in 1910 or 1911. This appointment marked a significant milestone in the university's academic structure, establishing a dedicated chair for modern languages. His leadership in this role contributed to the development and prominence of the School of Modern Languages at Newcastle. The significance of his appointment was later commemorated during centenary celebrations for the School of Modern Languages held at Newcastle University in 2011.
2.2. Specialization and Research
Latham was recognized as a specialist in both French literature and German literature. His expertise extended to being an accomplished translator across several European languages, primarily German, French, and Italian. Beyond literary works, he also undertook the translation of choral works that were set by his colleague at Newcastle, W. G. Whittaker, demonstrating the breadth of his linguistic and cultural engagements.
2.3. Translation and Writing Activities
Albert George Latham was a prolific translator and author, contributing significantly to the accessibility of European literature for English-speaking audiences. Among his most notable works is his translation of Goethe's Faust, encompassing both Part 1 and Part 2. This translation, published in 1912 for the Everyman's Library edition, became particularly well-known and was the version with which most English-speaking readers in the first half of the 20th century were familiar. In addition to his translations, Latham also authored academic works, including The Oxford Treasury of French Literature, which was published in 1915.
3. Personal Life
In 1899, Albert George Latham married the daughter of A.D. Murray, who was the editor of the Newcastle Daily Journal. His wife, Mrs. Latham, later established her own career as an author, writing books for children. She also became a recognizable public figure, taking charge of the popular radio program 'Children's Hour' on the local BBC radio station in Newcastle, where she was known affectionately as 'Auntie Katie'.
4. Retirement and Death
Albert George Latham retired from his professorial duties at Newcastle University in 1926, concluding a distinguished academic career. He passed away in 1940.
5. Legacy and Evaluation
Albert George Latham's contributions as an academic and translator left a significant mark on the fields of linguistics and literature, and his work continues to be recognized.
5.1. Academic Impact
Latham's translations, particularly his rendition of Goethe's Faust, played a crucial role in disseminating European literary classics to a wider English-speaking audience. His work for the Everyman's Library ensured that these important texts were accessible and widely read throughout the early to mid-20th century, influencing generations of students and general readers. His writings, such as The Oxford Treasury of French Literature, also contributed to the academic study and appreciation of French literature.
5.2. Commemoration and Recognition
Latham's pioneering role as the first Professor of Modern Languages at Newcastle University is a significant part of his legacy. His contributions to the establishment and growth of the School of Modern Languages were celebrated during its centenary in 2011, highlighting his foundational importance to the institution's academic development.