Classical Civilisation
AS Level
Pupils who choose this option in the Lower Sixth will follow the OCR specification. Three units are offered which focus attention on Greek civilisation and which offer the pupils the opportunity to study elements of literature, history, politics, social history and religion of the ancient Greek world and thereby introduce them to the glory of Greece that did so much to shape Western Europe. It also encourages pupils to develop an awareness of the similarities and differences between the Greek world and our own and to gain a sensitivity to a past society whose spiritual, cultural and moral values and priorities contrast with those of the modern world.
All the units are based on the study of primary literary evidence, translated into English. There is no requirement for previous study of the Greek world or Classical languages and it is anticipated that a wide range of pupils with varied experience will embark on this course. The broad range of disciplines and skills, which are fostered by the study of Classical Civilisation, is reflected in the diversity of possible candidates. The three units to be studied are: Greek Epic (Homer's Iliad or Odyssey); Greek Tragedy 2 - Euripides; Greek Comedy 1: Aristophanes and Attic Old Comedy.
A Level
Pupils who continue with this course at A2 will study: Greek and Roman Epic (Homer and Virgil); Greek Tragedy 3 - Sophocles, Aeschylus and Euripides; in addition they will produce an 'Individual Study' (a 3000 word essay) on Roman Britain.
Throughout the year every effort will be made to see any productions of relevant plays in Birmingham, Stratford-upon-Avon, Oxford or London, to visit museums or go to current exhibitions or to attend lectures on any of these topics.