Classical Civilisation
Immerse yourself in Ancient Rome and Greece and experience the lasting legacy of these civilisations. During your Classical Civilisation A Level, you will explore how ancient myths and legends develop in Greek plays and Epic tales, such as Homer’s Odyssey. You will learn about what it was like to be a part of Ancient Greek and Roman society.
Our subject is interdisciplinary which means it includes the study of history (Archaic and Classical Greece, Imperial Rome), philosophy (including works by Aristotle, Plato and Seneca), religion (Greek Gods), literature (Epic poetry), drama (Greek tragedies and comedies), art (vases, frescoes, statues), archaeology (the remains of ancient lands), and the political and social culture of Ancient Greece and Rome.
What was it like to be a citizen during the beginnings of Greek democracy or under the tyranny of Roman Emperors? What was it like to be a woman or slave in these societies? What does it mean to lead an army? Is the sacrifice of the few justified by the benefit of the many? What is it about ancient myths that makes them so powerful and popular today? By the end of this course, you will be able to engage with these questions and support your own interpretations with historical knowledge and an in-depth analysis of art, archaeology, literature and philosophy.
Enrichment
There are numerous trips and opportunities available to students throughout the period of study. Each term includes a theatre trip. This year students are heading to the West End to see Mark Strong in Oedipus. Students also visit the British Museum.
Termly University Conference Days
In the Autumn Term, students will have the opportunity to visit Oxford University Faculty of Classics and attend their society’s renowned performance of a Greek play. In the Spring Term, they will attend Warwick University’s Classics Conference Day and have the opportunity to see lectures by leading academics, such as Edith Hall.
Trips to see Ancient Wonders
There is a trip to Italy or Greece in the Spring Term.
Archaeological Excavations
Each Spring students will be encouraged and supported to apply for places on summer archaeological digs.
Beginners Latin and Greek
Students will have the opportunity to attend a beginner’s course in Latin and / or Ancient Greek, if they wish to.
Classical Association Book Club Membership
All students will have the opportunity to be enrolled in the Classical Association Book Club, if they wish. They will receive free copies of modern literature that has a Classical focus and the opportunity to discuss these texts each term with scholars, academics and enthusiasts.