“Pupils display exemplary scientific knowledge and interest” ISI
Classical Civilisation (Classics) combines the skills required for studying History, History of Art and English Literature. Pupils develop an understanding of the Ancient World, its literature, culture and civilisation and develop analytical and discursive skills through the study of some of the greatest literature of the western world. No previous knowledge or study is required.
A level
Course Content and Assessment – Examination Board: OCR, Code: H408
- Paper 1: The World of the Hero (Written exam: 2 hours 30 mins, 40% of the qualification)
This topic allows pupils to study two of the oldest and greatest works in Western history. They will explore the composition, social, cultural, and religious context of both poems, examining key themes and characterisations. In the Odyssey, pupils follow Odysseus’s adventures home from the Trojan War,
including battles with a Cyclops and his revenge on the suitors. In the Aeneid, they will see Aeneas overcome obstacles, such as the wrath of Juno and Italian distrust, to found a new Troy and establish the beginnings of the Roman race.
- Paper 2: Greek Theatre (Written exam: 1 hour 45 mins, 30% of the qualification)
In this topic, pupils will explore the role of drama in Athenian society, focusing on the nature of tragedy and comedy through three key plays: Sophocles’ Oedipus the King, Euripides’ Bacchae, and Aristophanes’ Frogs. The first two plays delve into mythology, allowing pupils to learn key ancient stories and discuss themes of the gods and free will, as well as debate the morality of the characters’ actions. In Frogs, they will encounter the surreal humor of Aristophanes. Additionally, pupils will examine the social, political, and religious factors that influenced these works, alongside visual sources such as archaeological remains and ancient pottery related to Greek theatre.
- Paper 3: Politics of the Late Republic (Written exam: 1 hour 45 mins, 30% of the qualification)
In this module, pupils will explore a volatile period in Roman history that led to the downfall of the Roman Republic and the rise of the Emperors. They will study events from Sulla’s retirement in 79 BC to Cicero’s death in 43 BC, focusing on key figures such as Cato the Younger, Julius Caesar, and Cicero. Pupils will learn about the workings of the Republic, Roman society, and key historical events that shaped the future. Additionally, they will analyze original source material, including Cicero’s speeches and letters, to gain insights into this tumultuous and often violent period.
Co-Curricular
Every week, Classics Society is run by members of the Sixth Form where they present interesting stories about ancient myths and history to pupils from year 7 upwards at lunchtime. Classics Clinic also runs twice a week during lunchtimes; Sixth Form students and teachers help pupils with difficult topics and to catch up with work which they might have missed from their lessons.
In Years 12 and 13 the department organises visits to conferences on Roman epic and Greek theatre. Residential trips are also run every year or every other year to places such as Rome, the Bay of Naples and Athens.
