Classical Civilisation

Please note that all literature is read in English and no prior knowledge of Latin or Greek is necessary.

This subject is varied and fascinating, and also helps us to understand the legacy left by the Greeks and Romans and their effect on the world today. Studying Classical Civilisation offers you the opportunity to learn more about today by studying the two civilisations which have contributed so much to Western civilisation. You will read, in translation, some of the most famous literature of the Greeks and Romans, and study and admire Greek art and architecture.

If you intend to study English at university, you should definitely consider studying Classical Civilisation as you will be better informed and understand the classical background to English Literature and Drama. Classical Civilisation in the Sixth Form also combines very well with all other arts subjects, including History, Modern Foreign Languages, Theatre Studies and Art. It also forms, surprisingly you may think, a good combination with scientific subjects. As well as offering a different academic discipline, it indicates your interest in wider subjects.

You should enjoy reading and looking at works of art and artefacts, and be ready to develop your essay-writing skills. If you are looking for variety and interest, you will not be disappointed.

This A-level includes the study of:

■ Greek theatre and art

■ Greek and Roman Epic

■ Imperial Rome

■ Greek religion and politics

After taking Classical Civilisation, our students have read subjects at university as diverse as English, Art, Archaeology, History, Theology, Law, Music, History of Art and Classical Studies.

Component 1: The World of the Hero

Examination: 2 hours 20 minutes

In this compulsory component we will study a work of the great epic poet, Homer, as well as Virgil’s masterpiece, The Aeneid. Learners will work towards an increasingly sophisticated level of knowledge and understanding of the epics themselves, the way in which they were composed, and the religious, cultural and social values and beliefs of its society. The study of Homer provides us with the opportunity to appreciate the lasting legacy of the Homeric world and to explore its attitudes and values. The epics of Homer (with their heroes, gods and exciting narratives) have been in continuous study since their conception, and remain popular with learners and teachers today. This is contrasted with a study of Virgil’s, 'The Aeneid', a cornerstone and landmark in Western literature. Drawing inspiration from Homer, as well as from his own cultural and political context, Virgil explored what it was to be a hero in the Roman world and created a work which has proved enduringly popular.

Component 2: Culture and the Arts

Examination: 1 hour 45 minutes

This component contains four options for study, all of which involve the study of visual/ material culture, thus providing a more comprehensive understanding of the ancient world. From the study of theatres and vases depicting performances, to Persian art and archaeological sites, to Roman coins and architecture, the sources studied in this component give a broad overview of the myriad of issues inherent in each topic. The topics are designed to give a strong understanding of the context of the sources studied.

Component 3: Beliefs and Ideas

Examination: 1 hour 45 minutes

In this component, learners are given the opportunity to explore some of the beliefs and ideals important, not only to the ancient world, but also to the modern one. From ideas about love to those about democracy, learners will examine thought-provoking and interesting concepts that will develop their ability to evaluate and analyse ideas as well as sources. This component contains four options for study, all of which include the study of classical thought; from ideas about politics and correct governance, to what is ‘right’ and ‘wrong’ when it comes to love and desire, to the nature of the gods and their relationship with mankind. These options contain both the study of classical thought and either related literature or visual/material culture.