Classical Civilisation

Course summary

Classical Civilisation is one of the broadest subjects available: it encompasses two different cultures, a wealth of literature, poetry, drama, history and philosophy, a rich feast of art and architecture, and the study of every aspect of complex ancient societies. The modules offered give students the opportunity to study diverse classical topics and sources. This course would suit a student who enjoys literature and history, and will focus on historical and cultural background as much as the literature and material objects themselves. The course does not require any prior knowledge of Classics, but an intellectual curiosity about our cultural heritage is essential. The study of Classical Civilisation involves three distinct modules: The World of the Hero component is a compulsory topic consisting of an in-depth study of the ancient epics: Homer’s Iliad and Virgil’s Aeneid. The works of Homer are the foundation of the Western literary canon and the Greeks themselves considered them the cornerstone of their culture. In his Aeneid, Virgil pays homage to Homer, but also to Rome and its leader, Augustus. With their unique composition and exciting tales of gods and heroes, these works of literature form an excellent grounding for exploration of the classical world. The Culture and Arts topic offers students the opportunity to discover the nature of Greek theatre, studying artefacts together with literature. Students will examine aspects of ancient drama through social, political and religious themes in tragedy (Sophocles’ Oedipus the King and Euripides’ Bacchae) and comedy (Aristophanes’ Frogs). The Beliefs and Ideas topic involves the study of the creation of Greek religion, or the birth and early functioning of democracy. The Greek religion module involves an exploration of ancient ideas of divinity and the role this played in everyday life, and indeed in literature. Democracy and the Athenians provides the opportunity to study the political system that underpins Western society, and to examine contemporary and modern critiques of its functions.