Classical Civilisation /

The Classical Civilisation course offers the opportunity to explore the significance of Greek and Roman culture in our contemporary lives. The course enables students both to gain a broad understanding of the major periods of classical civilisation and to study selected topics at greater depth through the reading of Greek and Roman authors in translation.

In the A Level, we study three key areas of the ancient world. Firstly, we explore the concepts of epic poetry and read both Homer’s Iliad and Virgil’s Aeneid in translation. Heroism, human emotion and the demands of society are all explored through the study of these poems. In addition, we look at Roman politics and the republican era of Roman history, which enables us to look at political conflict and disorder in ways that are very relevant today. Finally, we study art history and look at the development of vase painting, freestanding sculpture and architectural sculpture from archaic through to high classical Greece. In this module we explore how art can be used as political propaganda and can be reflective of the political situation of the era.

If you enjoy learning about ancient culture and society without translating the original languages, then Classical Civilisation is the subject for you. You will find the course challenging, enjoyable and stimulating and you will be encouraged to relate what you study to the modern world and your own experience. English, History, Modern Languages, Religious Studies, Drama, Geography and Art all complement Classical Civilisation.

Course structure /

Exam board: OCR

Unit 1: The World of the Hero (40%)

Unit 2: Culture and the Arts: Greek Art (30%)

Unit 3: Beliefs and Ideas: Politics of the late Republic (30%)

Beyond A Level /

Students of Classical Civilisation go on to follow a wide variety of degree courses including Archaeology, Ancient History, English, History and Sociology.

Careers include: archaeologist, museum curator or archivist, the heritage industry, journalism, law, media and politics.

Entry requirements /

GCSE English Literature / English Language / Classical Civilisation (Grade 6).

GCSE Classical Civilisation is not a requirement for the A Level brightongirls.gdst.net/sixth-form/