Curriculum Leader: Mrs D Dicks
A Level Teachers: Mrs D Dicks, Mr M Clarke
Examining Board: OCR
Form of Examination: 2x 1hr 30 minutes papers (No coursework)
Should I choose this subject?
Classical Civilization examines the culture and civilization of Classical Greece and Rome, through a study of art, drama, history and literature.
Skills that are required and that will be developed through this subject are:
- The ability to analyse material in an objective manner
- The ability to formulate a cogent and well-written argument
- Questioning and looking deeply / seeing beyond the obvious
This subject helps pupils to develop their essay-writing skills and to write and speak more confidently and persuasively. It combines well with History, History of Art, Psychology, Drama, English, Latin and Art, but can also provide a useful Humanities balance with more scientific subjects. It is furthermore an excellent subject for improving English skills. No prior knowledge of Classical Civilization or Classical languages is required.
What is it about?
During the course of your A level, you will study a selection of topics, usually the following:
-
Greek Tragedy in its Context: The tragedies of Classical Greek writers which examine themes such as relationships, fate and free will, murder, revenge, religion and psychological motivation. This combines well with English, Psychology and Drama.
-
Homer's Odyssey and Society: Homer's epic and the society which it describes - combines well with English, History and Government and Politics.
-
Art and Architecture in Greek World: Greek sculpture, vase painting and architecture. - combines well with Art and History of Art.
-
Epic and the Age of Augustus: Virgil's Aeneid and Homer's Odyssey, a study of the society of the time, the use of literature for propaganda - combines well with English, History and Government and Politics.
How will it be studied?
Discussion is a key part of the lessons - pupils are encouraged to think independently, to express their opinions freely and without judgement and to formulate persuasive arguments. Ample use is made of ICT and visual resources.
How will classical civilization be useful to you in the future?
This subject helps pupils to develop skills of persuasive and clear argument as well as critical thinking. The ability to present one’s case well is of obvious benefit to most fields, but particularly law, journalism, teaching and public speaking. “The fact that someone’s done Classics will make them stand out” (Hardwin Jones, Milk Round Graduate Recruitment).