Classical Greek

Why study this subject?

Classical Greek is a fascinating, subtle and elegant language in which many of the classics of Western literature were written, such as the epics of Homer and the tragedies of ancient Athens. Classical Greek is the basis of the Modern Greek language and lends very many words to English. Classical Greek at A Level offers the unique and fascinating opportunity to study the society and language of the Ancient Greeks through the original language. If you have enjoyed learning the intricacies of this highly inflected language as well as the powerful literature that it gives access to at GCSE then this should definitely be an option to consider at A Level. When they study Greek, learners read significant portions of verse and prose texts taken from a rotation prescribed by the exam boards. When studying literature, learners study the structure, form, and content of the texts, asking questions like ‘What does the poet mean by this word or phrase?’, ‘Why has this word been chosen?’, ‘What are the various ways in which we can interpret this passage?’, or ‘What do we discover about the character of x in this text?’. Learners study poetic meter and metrical rhythms, as well as a wide range of literary devices (such as polyptoton, alliteration, chiasmus, hyperbole, etc.).

Classical Greek makes an excellent complement to Latin A Level but also combines well with any language, humanity, or literary subject, and can dovetail nicely as a fourth ‘A’ Level in conjunction with scientific or other disciplines. Studying Greek provides a wider understanding of the ancient world, deepens students’ overall linguistic awareness and prepares students for their study of Languages (Modern and Classical), Humanities and of course any manner of Classics courses at university.

What skills will you develop?

The unique rigour and discipline that study of Classical Greek at A Level provides to its students makes them highly sought after by both universities and employers alike.

Similar to Latin, these skills include, but are not limited to: • The ability to analyse any language in a very rigorous and methodical way. • The understanding of English vocabulary and the etymology of words in a more profound way. • The ability to analyse and evaluate literary texts in a highly critical way. • The ability to formulate convincing and articulate arguments (both oral and written), drawing on different evidence. • The ability to read and research independently. • Intellectual curiosity and inquisitiveness. • An understanding of the origins of European literature and civilisation. • Deeper understanding of a foreign culture and civilisation which, in turn, fosters openmindedness and critical self-understanding. • Empathy, being able to put yourself in someone else’s shoes. • Increased literacy and essay writing techniques. • Creativity and originality of thought, being able to ‘think outside the box’.

What are the key elements to the course?

The A Level course is rigorous and stimulating, building on the language skills acquired at GCSE. Translation to and from Greek into English and prose comprehension/ prose composition skills are key elements of the A Level course. Students hone what they have learnt at GCSE, through increased acquisition of Greek vocabulary and a deeper understanding of Greek grammar and syntax to become increasing more proficient at analysing texts and translating them with precision and fluency. Ample opportunities are offered to draw comparisons with Latin as well as the influence of Greek on our own vocabulary.

Just as at GCSE, we also study literature in the original language. This consists of two prose and two verse texts and can range from Homeric epics to the tragic plays of Euripides and Sophocles, from the dialogues of Plato to the histories of Herodotus. These authors have had a profound influence on European culture and have provided a source of inspiration to many writers. As we study these works, students improve their language skills and their ability to analyse literary texts in a sophisticated and perceptive manner.

In the study of Greek, we seek to enrich as far as possible our students beyond the confines of the curriculum, alerting them to interlocking cultures of the ancient world, including Egypt, Persia, and India. Through the study of literature, we place an emphasis upon the statuses of men and women in the ancient world and encourage students to think critically about modern issues such as feminism, ethnicity, and national identity.

Our Classical Societies are open to all students, but our Sixth Form Classicists are especially encouraged to run and give talks/presentations on topics related to the art, literature, history, and culture of the ancient Mediterranean world and beyond.