Classical Civilisation can be taken up by those who have not studied Classical Civilisation (or Latin or Greek) at GCSE. Over the two years, three distinct components are studied; they are important and interesting in themselves and have significance for the development of Western Civilisation. Why should I study Classical Civilisation? • You will have the opportunity to read and enjoy some of the earliest surviving, and most highly-regarded, works in the Western literary canon. • You will evaluate the culture of ancient Greece and Rome, using this fresh perspective to reflect on your own experiences and perspective. • You will develop insights into the relevance of ancient literature and civilisation to our understanding of our modern world of diverse cultures. • You will combine the source analysis of History, the literary criticism of English and the cultural comparisons of Religious Studies. • You will be introduced to elements of Archaeology and Anthropology. • You will learn how to appreciate and respond to a wide range of sources. • Because the material is so wide-ranging, interesting and engaging, you will find it fascinating and enjoyable! The three components are: • The World of the Hero. This is a compulsory component consisting of an in-depth study, in translation, of the epics of Homer (Odyssey) and Virgil (Aeneid). Key topics for both epics are Literary techniques and composition; the heroic world: characterisation and themes; and the social, cultural and religious context. Historical and political background is an additional key topic for the Aeneid. • Culture and the Arts: Greek Theatre. This component involves the study of prescribed visual and material culture (e.g. archaeological evidence and artefacts), combined with the study of Sophocles’ Oedipus the King, Euripides’ Bacchae and Aristophanes’ Frogs – all in translation. Key topics are Drama and the theatre in ancient Athenian society; the nature of tragedy; the nature of (old) comedy; literary techniques, structure, and dramatic conventions; and social, political and religious themes in tragedy and comedy. • Beliefs and ideas: Love and Relationships. This component involves the study of an area of Classical thought, in combination with literature in translation. The works of Plato, Seneca, Sappho and Ovid provide the source material; the interpretation of this evidence is an integral part of the course. Key topics are Men and women; Plato and Seneca on love and desire; love and relationships in Sappho and Ovid; ethics and values relating to love, desire and relationships.