Classical Civilisation

Why study Classical Civilisation?

Classical Civilisation allows you to study the literature, history, culture and society of the Classical World, both Roman and Greek. It is ideal for any student interested in politics, military history, society and literature. The course provides the opportunity to think laterally about a range of topics through a range of mediums. The beauty of classics is the diversity of skills you are exposed to: from literary analysis to the study of symbolism, from exploring the historical context of some of the most defining moments in the western history to the use of propaganda as a tool to influence or manipulate and the origins of some of our most valuable political institutions. Classical Civilisation tells a story of our past and can shape the way we think about, and understand, our present and our future. No study of Latin at GCSE is required to take this option but a strong interest and enthusiasm for the classical world and secure skills in humanities based subjects (English, History, Religious Education) at GCSE are vital.

Subject content

The course follows the OCR syllabus and consists of three examinations all to be taken in Year 13:

Paper 1: World of the Hero The study of Homer’s Odyssey and Virgil’s Aeneid in Translation

Literature (in translation) (100 Marks) 2 hrs 20 minute paper; 40% of total A Level This paper develops the skills and techniques students will be familiar with from English Literature GCSE. You will be looking at the way in which the ancient authors develop characters, create tension and drama and explore ideas and themes in their poetry. How is a Homeric hero different from a Roman one? What can these poems tell us about the values and the experiences of the classical world? Find out why these two poems have been so critical to the development of all Western literature and continue to have such an enduring power to inspire and enthral. This paper is taught across Year 12 and Year 13 by Mrs Dickinson.

Paper 2: Culture and the Arts Augustus’ imperial image

Literature and visual/material culture (75 marks) 1 hr 45 minute paper; 30% of the total A Level This paper looks at one of the most exciting periods in Roman history, the emergence of the Roman Empire after the turmoil of the civil wars. Students will analyse the meaning behind various forms of expression - coins, statues, poetry, and architecture - and look at how Augustus used these to influence his political agenda and successfully establish his power base. This paper is taught in Year 12 by Dr Main.

Paper 3: Beliefs and Ideas Democracy and the Athenians

Classical thought, literature and visual/material culture (75 marks) 1 hr 45 minute paper; 30% of the total A Level How and why did democracy emerge as the predominant political system in Athens in the 5th century BC? Students will look at the establishment of Athenian democracy and explore the culture, society, climate and individuals which created this form of political governance, and the institutions that supported it. This paper is taught in Year 12 (summer term) and in Year 13 by Dr Main.