Classical Civilisation

Exam Board: OCR Syllabus: A-level: H408 Consult: Ms Mayne

WHY STUDY THE SUBJECT? Classical Civilisation is the exploration and study of the achievements and lifestyle of the Greeks and Romans in the ancient world, the basis of our own culture today. This course covers a vast range of areas, enabling students to gain a broad understanding of the ancient world and its historical and cultural impact. These include the study of great works of literature in translation, such as Greek Tragedy and epic poetry, examination of art and architecture, exploration of historical, political and cultural context, along with philosophy and ancient values.

CONTENT AND BREAKDOWN Year 12 Content: • UNIT 21: Greek theatre in the classical age • UNIT 11: The World of the Hero:

Homer’s Odyssey

Year 13 Content: • The World of the Hero: Virgil’s Aeneid to complete the study of this unit • UNIT 32: Love & Relationships in the ancient world: Sappho’s poetry, Ovid’s

Ars Amatoria, Seneca & Plato on love & marriage, men & women. We will also look at love & relationships in the modern world as comparison.

ASSESSMENT At A-level there are 3 examinations: The World of the Hero will take 40%; the other two units will each take 30%.

EXTRACURRICULAR There will be trips to the British Museum throughout the course and there is usually a Classics Easter trip to Europe; in the past, these have included Italy, Sicily & Greece. AFTER ASHCOMBE Students who study Classical Civilisation at A-level often continue to study Classics in its many variations at university from Ancient History to 4 year Classics courses with Latin & Greek. It can also form an excellent basis for the study of History, Drama, English to name a few. Studying the classics has traditionally been seen as a fine training for law, politics & management & can lead to a variety of careers.