What you will learn

Two components are studied and are assessed at the end of the course in two exams. Each component is wide-ranging and allows you to explore a number of related topics. The prescribed sources of information provide an opportunity to study and compare the ancient Greeks and Romans through their literature as well as their art, architecture and archaeological remains. In addition, you will be encouraged to explore your own interests in the Classical world and you will gain marks in the exams by using your independent research in relevant ways.

Myth and Religion

This component deals with the religious beliefs of the Greeks and Romans: the much-loved stories of the gods and the great hero Hercules; the way in which the Greeks and Romans represented and worshipped their gods in festivals and sacrifices; and the structures used for worship and their sculpted decoration. The component also explores the Greek and Roman beliefs and practices surrounding death, burial and the Underworld, as well as how the Greeks and Romans used religious imagery to project their own sense of identity and power.

Roman City Life

This component looks at various aspects of Roman everyday life: family life in the Roman house, and education; the roles of everyone from senators to slaves and the relationships between them; the amphitheatre, theatre and circus and the entertainment that took place in them; the public baths; and the way in which Roman writers of satire, fiction and letters depicted the excitement and dangers of life in Roman cities.

Use

Classical Civilisation equips students with readily transferable, analytical skills. A wide variety of source material, ranging from literature through art and architecture to archaeological evidence, is studied and great stress is put upon understanding and appreciating the values of other cultures. The course stimulates discussion and helps students to formulate their own ideas on a diverse range of subjects which are highly relevant to today’s world. Classical Civilisation therefore fits very well in most subject combinations. The GCSE course also provides excellent preparation for those students wishing to continue the study of Classical Civilisation at A Level through the OCR course. Classical Civilisation students develop excellent independent study skills through being encouraged to broaden their classical knowledge, and by making complex links between the various elements of the course.