Classical Civilisation

GCSE Classical Civilisation is open to all pupils regardless of whether or not they have studied it before. Certainly those who have enjoyed Classical Civilisation lower down the school, will probably find that GCSE Classical Civilisation is a good choice. If they have studied Latin in Year 9 and are looking for a course which does not require knowledge of classical languages but builds on their work on the background material, then this course should suit them.

Classical Civilisation is a popular choice of GCSE subject because of its great variety of content and the fascinating areas we investigate. It lends itself well to links with other GCSE subjects; this glimpse of the ancient world will be useful in pupils’ wider studies, as well as providing a stimulating option choice.

The subject has real value today.We offer opportunities to study the ancient civilisations of Greece and Rome, to read some of the best literature ever produced and to make comparisons with our lives today. Classical Civilisation helps pupils of the 21st century to understand our world and to become sensitive to the lifestyles and emotions of real people, who are similar to ourselves but separated from us by two thousand years.

Course Content

The syllabus offers a range of topics on the classical world, from which two are chosen.

Thematic Study

The Thematic Study provides the opportunity to study both literature and visual/material culture in Greece and Rome.These components are wide ranging and encompass a variety of interesting, engaging material. Learners will either focus on Myth and religion or Women in the ancient world, themes which are popular and rewarding to study. Learners will be required to make informed comparisons between Greek and Roman ideas, including the characteristics of the different societies.They will also be expected to use literature and visual/ material culture in conjunction with one another in order to inform their judgements, including discussion of why or how the sources may present things differently from each other.

Literature and Culture

In Literature and Culture learners will be able to undertake an element of cultural study, and then couple this with the study of literature in translation.This approach enables a diverse course of study and preserves the variety of material which has always been such a popular feature of Classical Civilisation. Learners will study one component from The Homeric world, Roman city life or War and warfare. In this part of the course there is an emphasis on enabling learners to respond to and engage with a wealth of sources and ideas, equipping them with readily transferable, analytical skills.