Classical Civilisation A-Level

Examination: 2 hours 20 minutes

In this compulsory component, we will study a work of the great epic poet, Homer, as well as Virgil’s masterpiece, ‘The Aeneid’. Learners will work towards an increasingly sophisticated level of knowledge and understanding of the epics themselves, the way in which they were composed, and the religious, cultural and social values and beliefs of its society.

The study of Homer provides us with the opportunity to appreciate the lasting legacy of the Homeric world and to explore its attitudes and values. The epics of Homer (with their heroes, gods and exciting narratives) have been in continuous study since their conception, and remain popular with learners and teachers today.

This is contrasted with a study of Virgil’s, ‘The Aeneid’, a cornerstone and landmark in Western literature. Drawing inspiration from Homer, as well as from his own cultural and political context, Virgil explored what it was to be a hero in the Roman world and created a work which has proved enduringly popular.

Examination: 1 hour 45 minutes

This component contains four options for study, all of which involve the study of visual/material culture, thus providing a more comprehensive understanding of the ancient world.
You will study Greek theatre, exploring the plays of Euripides, Sophocles and Aristophanes. You will gain an insight into how tragedy and comedy was performed and the pertinent place these stories and the concepts they discuss hold in modern culture and civilisation.

Examination: 1 hour 45 minutes
In this component, learners are given the opportunity to explore some of the beliefs and ideals important, not only to the ancient world, but also to the modern one. From ideas about love to those about democracy, learners will examine thought-provoking and interesting concepts that will develop their ability to evaluate and analyse ideas as well as sources.

This component contains four options for study, all of which include the study of classical thought.
You will be studying Greek religion, which blends very well with the module of Greek theatre and helps us to understand the nature of the gods and their relationship with mankind. Through this, you will understand how Greek society worked and why the ancients acted like they did.