A Level Classical Civilisation

Introduction:

You are probably familiar with some of the most famous classical stories and heroes such as Paris, Helen and the Trojan War, Achilles and Hector, Odysseus and the Wooden Horse, Jason and the Argonauts or The Twelve Labours of Heracles.  This course reveals a classical heritage we all share today by introducing you to classical Greek literature in translation: Homer’s Odyssey and the tragic dramas in year one; and then Vergil’s Roman epic, the Aeneid, alongside Greek and Roman comedies in year two.  Along the way we touch also upon Greek and Roman myth, philosophy, history, art and political life.  The tragic playwrights of fifth century Athens – Euripides, Sophocles and Aeschylus – produced plays that are amongst the most celebrated in world literature, whilst the Greek comic playwright Aristophanes  is often referred to as the grandfather of comedy.  If you enjoy reading this course is a wonderful way to support your studies in English, History, Politics, Art or Religion.

Exam Board: OCR

Specific Course Entry Requirements: In addition to the Minimum Entry Requirements you will need a GCSE grade B in English Language.

Additional Information: The course is literature-based so you will need to enjoy reading a variety of classical texts in translation and to take an interest in the history, art and archaeology of the period. A classical excursion to Greece is also available at the end of the year for those who wish to visit some of the key sites of the ancient world.