Classical Civilisation

Course summary

While the ancient world may at first seem remote from the problems of the present, the study of Classical Civilisation can help students make sense of the world today. The nature and impact of various cultural and religious developments, the responses of societies to complex social and economic challenges, and the issues of justice, discrimination and violence were as much a part of the ancient world as they are of ours today Classical Civilisation is an interdisciplinary course of study, covering Literature, History, Language, Art, and more. Classical Civilisation covers mainly Greco-Roman history but may also include Egypt and Mesopotamia. Classical Civilisation touches on Religion, Art, Philosophy, Drama, Poetry, Science, Astronomy, Mythology, Geography, Mathematics, Archaeology, Politics, Law, and Gender Studies. Almost everything we know has an antecedent or counterpart in the Classics. Classical Civilisation combines well with any other subject. Students studying English Literature will find a Classical background invaluable, particularly a knowledge of Homer and Greek Tragedy. Historians gain knowledge of another period. Dramatists enjoy the literature and the Ancient Tragedies and Comedies. Classical Civilisation involves the study of literature for literature’s sake rather than as a historical source; the same applies to art, architecture and archaeological evidence. There is some overlap between Classical Civilisation and Ancient History but Classical Civilisation is much broader and involves skills from English Literature and other subjects as well as History.