Classical Civilisation - A Level

Classical Civilisation is a varied subject, covering the history, literature, myths, religion, politics, philosophy and culture of the Greeks and Romans. It aims to give students a detailed understanding of this fascinating world and an appreciation of its massive influence. No prior knowledge is necessary when choosing the subject. Many of the most famous people and events of Greece and Rome are covered, including the Trojan War, Oedipus, Caesar, Augustus and Antony and Cleopatra. During their study, students are encouraged to sharpen critical thinking and analytical skills in making sense of these events and personalities. In both written and oral responses, students will be attempting to consider a culture that deals with some fundamental aspects of human existence in a very different way. This should be both fulfilling and valuable.

AS LEVEL UNIT 1: The World of the Hero (Homer The Odyssey)
How much suffering can a man endure for the love of his wife and home?
The Odyssey is a famous ‘epic poem’ dealing in Greek myth. Homer’s work was seen as the starting point for all literature in the ancient world and a study of his tales of Greek gods and the exploits of heroes such as Odysseus, Achilles and Agamemnon allow us to explore Greek customs and value systems. We will consider how the main character, Odysseus, faces up to the many challenges he is set and judge him, and others in the epic, by their actions and behaviour.

AS LEVEL UNIT 2: Culture and the Arts (Greek Tragedy and Comedy in context)
How secure are the great achievements of man?
Greek Tragedy introduces you to the most powerful dramatic productions ever performed. The themes of the plays by Sophocles and Euripides still resonate today and are universal. Oedipus the King deals with themes of power and pride; the Bacchae with the gods and their power. All tragic plays ask fundamental questions about human existence and experience.

A2 UNIT 3: The World of the Hero (Roman Epic)
Is freedom a price worth paying for peace?
Roman Epic focusses upon the first emperor of Rome; Augustus. He is famous for bringing peace to Rome, but the events that define the ‘Augustan Age’ are some of the most memorable in history. The assassination of Julius Caesar, Antony and Cleopatra, Hannibal’s campaigns against the Roman Empire; these are what defined the Roman character. We will focus upon Virgil’s epic poem The Aeneid.

A2 Unit 4: Democracy and the Athenians
What was ‘radical’ about Athenian society?
We look at how democracy permeated Athenian identity, how it was celebrated and idealised, but also how it was criticised. The concepts of ‘popular’ leaders who mislead the people, or give them what they want rather than what they need, and a voting public who may not be fully informed on the issues, may resonate today. Finally, you will study extracts from the comedies of Aristophanes, whose biting wit and satire can still capture a modern audience as it did an ancient one.