Classical Civilisation

You’ll be co-taught by literature and history specialists, giving you a broad and balanced understanding of the ancient world. All texts are studied in English translation – you do not need to have studied Latin or Greek previously.

On the literary side, you’ll study epic poetry about the heroes of the classical world: Homer’s Odyssey and Virgil’s Aeneid. You’ll also explore Greek theatre, studying the plays themselves and how drama was staged and experienced by ancient audiences.

On the history side, you’ll study the politics of Late Roman Republic, exploring Roman beliefs, values and political thought, as well as the causes of conflict, the role of powerful individuals and the factors that led to the collapse of the Republic and the rise of Empire.

OCR.

Assessment is entirely by examination at the end of the course, with three written exams on each of the course’s major topics (Odyssey/Aeneid, Greek Theatre, the Late Republic).

Classical Civilisation students go on to study degrees not just in Classics but English, History, Philosophy, Archaeology, Drama, History of Art, Law and Politics. It is a versatile qualification highly valued by universities and employers because it develops strong academic skills, including critical thinking, independent research and clear written communication.

Career pathways include teaching, law, journalism, publishing, heritage and museum work, marketing, and the creative industries. But UCAS data shows that students studying Classics also go on to study in Medicine, Veterinary Science and Chemistry.

Classical Civilisation combines particularly well with History, English, Philosophy, Politics and Modern Foreign Languages, but it also works successfully alongside STEM subjects. Students who enjoy essay-based subjects often find Classical Civilisation complements their studies, while STEM students value it as a contrasting humanities subject that strengthens analytical and writing skills.

One to one support is always available. We run revision in the months leading up to exams, but our study planners will help you organise and prepare before that point by supporting you with weekly tasks and targets for independent study. We have a wide range of resources on paper and online to support your learning and help you manage notetaking, new concepts, reading and essay writing.

Students will have opportunities to enrich their studies through trips to museums, galleries and classical sites, theatre visits to see Greek drama in performance, and lectures and workshops linked to the ancient world. These activities help bring the ancient world to life and deepen understanding beyond the classroom.

Classicists are highly valued by top universities and employers for their analytical thinking, essay-writing and problem-solving skills. As celebrity classicist Mary Beard has said, “It’s about learning to make a plausible, convincing, analytical argument. It introduces you to how people research, find out, analyse, structure, and argue.”