Beware the Ides of March

I took Latin in High School because I felt it would help me with scientific names for plants and animals for my profession as an archeologist. I have used Latin in many ways since, but not one day of my career as an archeologist did I need it  -- Oh well!

One of my Latin teachers always had a party on the Ides of March, the day Caesar was killed on the steps of the senate.  The phrase  “Beware the Ides of March,” is from Shakespeare’s play, Julius Caesar.

So here is your Latin lesson on the origin of the Ides of March--

In the ancient Roman calendar, each month had an Ides. In March, May, July, and October, the Ides fell on the 15th day. In every other month, the Ides fell on the 13th day.

The word Ides derives from a Latin word, meaning to divide. The Ides were originally meant to mark the full moons, but because calendar months and lunar months were different lengths, they quickly got out of step.

The Romans also had a name for the first day of every month. It was known as the Kalends. It’s from this word that our word calendar is derived.

If you are worried about what might happen on the Ides of March try these herbal remedies:

• Hang a bunch of dill over a child’s bed to protect against evil fairies.
• If you’re concerned about dishonesty, plots, secrets,  and conspiracy theories, place a bouquet of borage leaves and blossoms nearby and listen in. (Borage is said to encourage people to tell the truth.)
• Wear angelica to protect yourself against evil spirits (but be aware that it may also keep you from seeing potential opportunities). Brew a tea of it and sprinkle a few drops in the corners of your house.