Classical Civilisation A Level

Code  ALV1

Course Content

You gain an AS Level after successfully completing Year 1, you will be awarded a full A Level after successfully completing Year 2.

Year 1

A study of the history, literature and lifestyles of Ancient Greece and Rome.

You will have the chance to look at an earlier period of history than you might previously have considered by focusing on classical literature of the Ancient World. Classical writings reveal how so many familiar aspects of our world (education, theatre, art, architecture, democracy, law, literature) have their historical roots in Ancient Greece and Rome.

During the course you will look at the role of women in Athens and Rome, their legal status, position and treatment within society and their public and private life.

You will also read Homer’s Iliad which highlights the role of the gods, fate, the heroic core and the portrayal of war. This course is designed to help you understand and appreciate a lost world.

(Year 2)

Classical Civilisation at A Level will introduce you to the Ancient World through the history, literature, architecture and art of the Greeks and Romans.
You will begin to understand not only the rich and diverse archaeological nature of the past, but also other key achievements of the Classical World. Classical Civilisation at A Level gives you an insight into the society, values, philosophy, science and religion of 5th century Athens and Augustan Rome.

During this course you will look at four Greek Tragedies (King Oedipus, Antigone, Hippolytus and Medea) focusing on dramatic techniques and effects, the concept of honour, the use of mythology and belief in fate, and the gods. Using Virgil’s Aeneid, you will also look at the destiny of Rome, the use of narrative and descriptive techniques and the role of the gods.

You will find that studying Classical Civilisation at A Level not only gives greater insight into the achievements of the Classical World, but also a deeper understanding of your own civilisation.

Assessment:
Examination

Progression

A highly commended A Level qualification that allows progression to Higher Education and to a number of generic career options that rely on research techniques and the ability to work well as part of a team as well as independently.

What subjects can I study with this course?
Classical Civilisation is complemented by a number of other A Levels including History, Archaeology and English.