Why Should You Take This Course?
This course is ideal for students interested in ancient civilisation. It introduces students to the literary and artistic achievements of Greece and Rome, which form the basis for this course of study.
AS: Year 1 ‘The World of the Hero' this will focus on Homer's Iliad and Virgil's Aeneid. These epic poems with their unique composition and exciting tales of gods and heroes will be explored in translation. Homer's tale of the Greek and Trojan heroes in the siege of Troy examine the role of the Gods, such as Zeus Hera Aphrodite and Athena, in the conflict and their impact on the humans, notably heroes such as Hector and Achilles, Patroclus and Agamemnon. The study of the Aeneid provides students with the opportunity examine the Roman answer to Homer's masterpiece with Virgil's cast of characters including Aeneas, Dido Turnus and Camilla.
‘The Greek Theatre' provides students with the opportunity to explore some of the most powerful drama ever produced which has had a profound and far reaching influence on modern culture. Students will be acquainted with the nature of Greek theatre and the origins and development of Greek tragedy through the works of Aescylus, Sophocles and Euripides. Literary technique, structure and conventions will be reviewed as well as the nature of comedy and the social, political and religious themes that pervaded the Greek theatre.
A2: Year 2: Students will examine Greek religion and its relationship to Greek society. The topic includes the nature of the Olympian Gods, examining their different roles, context and function. The relationship of the gods to mortals will also be examined. The depiction of the Gods by Homer and Hesiod will be examined. Attention will also be given to the very different role played by the Mystery cults and the tensions generated by the rise of philosophical thinking.
How will I be assessed?
Regular assessment will take the form of source based questions and essay writing, with regular practice of these skills under exam conditions.
Are there any special expenses?
Students will be advised which texts they will need to purchase for the course all of which are readily available from booksellers and on-line sites.
What could I do next?
Classical Civilisations is a respected degree subject in Higher Education and can open the door to a variety of careers, including archaeology, museum curator, journalism, the Civil Service, etc.
If you wish to apply for 2020-2021 academic year, please complete the online application form.