Classical Civilisation

Course summary

Why choose this course? Classical Civilisation A Level students will be given the opportunity to explore the ancient world through the study of diverse material, which will allow them to experience of literature, mythology, history, drama and art. Development of critical thinking and analytical skills are two of the key objectives of this course. Classical Civilisation A Level is often taken with modern or ancient languages as well as History, Geography, Religious Studies and Art. Course Fundamentals Anyone who is interested in the Ancient World and enjoys History, Politics or literature should consider studying this course. It is open to any students no matter what their GCSE subjects. All texts are studied in translation so no other language besides English is required. In Year 12, students will study two components. In Component 1, they will study Homer’s Odyssey.They will examine the way the epic was composed and the religious, cultural and social values and beliefs of its society. Component 2 is about Greek theatre.They look at the nature of drama and the social, political and religious themes of comedy and tragedy. In Year 13, students study two more topics. They study a second text in Component 1;Virgil’s Aeneid. Similar to the Odyssey, they examine the literary techniques, political background and its social, cultural and religious context. In component 3, they study the concept of democracy; what this meant to the Athenians and its positive and negative aspects