Classical Civilisation

Course summary

The OCR A Level course consists of Homer’s Odyssey and Greek Tragedy; Virgil and the World of the Hero and Greek Art and Architecture. Debate and discussion are key to Level study where pupils are required to develop well-substantiated, informed and personal responses to works of great literature and of the birth of classical art. Pupils study the first books of Western literature and are required to analyse the core meaning of the texts; they study Greek art, which transformed Western art for all time and they study Greek Theatre – a unique and beautiful art form that questions humanity itself. Pupils in the Sixth Form are encouraged to write for the Oracle, the departmental newsletter about Classical topics not covered by the exam board, enriching their understanding of the ancient world and preparing them for university. Many also take part in the annual Greek Tragedy – playing the roles that they study in the written texts for A Level and bringing their study to life in a creative and enriching way. It is very clear from the outstanding results that performing in or watching tragedies has a profound effect on pupils’ understanding of the art. Pupils also have the opportunity to travel to the places that they study further enriching their understanding; pupils see the works of art that they study at museums and sites in Greece, Italy, Turkey and London! Pupils learn to question, debate and use evidence to substantiate their points. They learn to weigh up arguments and to respond to problems. As a course of A Level study at St Mary’s, Classics is very popular and pupils consistently score above their predicted grades. We currently have former St. Mary’s pupils studying and even lecturing in Classics at Cambridge, Nottingham, St. Andrews, Kings College, Leeds, Manchester, Liverpool, Reading and Swansea Universities.