Classical Civilisation

Course summary

A knowledge of the civilisations of Greece and Rome is fundamental to an understanding of our own. The new A-level syllabus offers an integrated study of literature, art, history, culture and philosophy in the ancient Mediterranean world. No previous knowledge of the subject is needed at all, although if you already have GCSE Classical Civilisation you will enjoy deepening and broadening your understanding. A typical lesson will involve reading or studying a primary source (an extract from a Greek poem or an image of a Roman sculpture, for example), followed by a teacher-led discussion. Often we will turn the spotlight back from the ancient world onto our own world to reassess the nature of our modern societies and values. An A level in Classical Civilisation provides an excellent basis for a range of degrees from Art to Philosophy. The subject can also be continued at university on its own or in combination with others. A Classics degree will require the study of Latin and/or ancient Greek, but the languages are not an entry requirement in most cases. Classical Civilisation degrees do not require language study, and there are also options such as Ancient & Modern History, Archaeology & Anthropology, Classics & English, Classics & Oriental Studies, and Classics and Modern Languages. Well-known public figures who have found the study of Classics a valuable training before going to high achievement in other fields include JK Rowling (best-selling author of the Harry Potter series), Tom Hiddleston (Actor), Susan Greenfield (who presented the series Brain Story on BBC2), Sir Anthony Cleaver (ex-Chairman of IBM, Head of UK Atomic Energy Authority), and Sir Jeremy Morse (ex-Chairman, Lloyds Bank).