Classical Civilisation

Course Overview

Classical Civilisation is the study of the cultures of ancient Greece and Rome, primarily through their literature. During your studies you will soon discover that their literature is very much connected with their cultural identity – in other words, their literature was concerned with their gods and heroes, myths and legends, which they viewed as their true history.

At AS Level you will study an introduction to two aspects of Classical Civilisation.

Specific topics for study are:

Aristophanes and Athens – looking at three plays by the comic playwright Aristophanes. As well as being extremely funny and relevant to today, you will also gain an understanding of the society and political background of fifth century Athens.
Homer’s Iliad – looking at the epic poem set at the time of the Trojan War, focussing on the character of Achilles and his relationship with other Greek and Trojan heroes.

At A2 Level you will develop your studies of two further aspects of Classical Civilisation.

Specific topics for study are:

Greek Tragedy – looking at four plays, examining the cruelties of the gods, and the dark and traumatic realms of the ancient Greek mind.
Roman Epic – looking at Virgil’s epic poem The Aeneid, using your previous knowledge of Homer’s writings and exploring the historical setting of the Aeneid in Augustan Rome.

Duration:Two years | Qualification: A Level | Level: Level 3

Delivery

The course is classroom based, with 4.5 hours teaching time per week. At the end of the AS year there will be two 1.5 hour exams. At the end of the A2 year there will be two 1.5 hour exams.

Requirements

Seven GCSEs grade C or above, one preferably in English language.

Progression

Students make successful careers in the mainstream of commerce, law, finance and public administration, as well as in more directionally vocational fields such as teaching, archive and museum work, conservation, etc. Unlike more specialised subjects, Classics opens rather than closes doors for its students.

Universities to which students typically progress include Swansea, Lampeter, Bristol, Exeter, Reading, UCL and Kings.