Classical Civilisation ‘This is a wide and interesting A Level, good for those who enjoy literature and would like to read some of the greatest works ever produced which have had such an influence upon later writers, and good also for those with an interest in Ancient History’.
Skills Required Classical Civilisation can be taken by anyone from scratch, since no knowledge of the classical languages or any previous study of Classical World is necessary.
Course Overview A wide range of material is read, all in translation. This is a flourishing subject and we have been greatly encouraged by the response it has received since its introduction. A considerable number of students have chosen to continue this subject at university. Several have been surprised to find something so old can be so lively and so relevant to the study of humanity, which remains remarkably unchanged over a few thousand years! The course offers you the opportunity to study the archaeology, architecture, art, history, literature, philosophy, politics, social history and religion of the Classical World. We like to broaden our students’ experience of the ancient world wherever possible, taking trips to plays and museums and using a wide range of exciting multi-media material. There is also the opportunity to attend relevant lectures and local talks organised by the Southampton branch of the Classical Association.
Methods of Assessment Assessments involve shorter questions, commentaries and longer essays. Three modules are taken:
Module 1
Module 2
Module 3
The Imperial Image
The Politics of the Later Republic
The World of the Hero
30%
A study of the rise and success of the first Roman Emperor, Augustus, using a range of primary sources, focussing on the propaganda surrounding his rule.
30%
40%
A study on the year leading up to the Roman civil war, focussing on the orator Cicero.
A study of both Homer’s Iliad and Virgil’s Aeneid, looking at the nature of both works, their themes such as heroism and ancient values, and the literary devices.
Head of Department: Mrs JM Meredith – jmm@kes.hants.sch.uk
37
