Classical Civilisation

Course summary

Why study A Level Classical Civilisation? A Level Classical Civilisation brings together all kinds of different aspects of the ancient world, which means there is something for everyone to find fascinating! When we blend together the study of art, literature, social history, philosophy and archaeology, we find ourselves transported to worlds both vastly different from and curiously similar to our own. What will I be studying? There are three modules: In the first component, you will study ‘The World of the Hero’, reading the epic poetry of Homer and Virgil. The second component involves an investigation of ‘Culture and the Arts’, focusing on Greek Theatre, including reading examples of both tragedy and comedy in translation, and studying a range of vases depicting theatrical scenes. The third component involves investigating ‘Beliefs and Ideas’ – here we will focus on how Greeks and Romans thought about and portrayed love and relationships, through philosophy and the poetry of Sappho and Ovid. How will I be studying? Texts are read in translation – you do not need to know any Greek or Latin. In-depth discussion of literature and images takes place in lessons, and essays and context questions will be set on a regular basis. How will A Level Classical Civilisation help me in the future? A Level Classical Civilisation enables us to examine the achievements of the past, through literature, art, history, philosophy and theatre. It is highly valued by universities, both as a subject in its own right and as an entry qualification for a range of degrees. Its study enables you to develop many skills that universities and employers are looking for: the ability to analyse what you read or hear, to present information in a clear and logical manner, to use evidence to support your views and to approach problems in a concise and coherent manner. It also gives you an enduring love of all things ancient, which can stay with you for the rest of your life.