Classical Civilisation is the study of Greek and Roman culture
in translation. There is no linguistic element, but the subject
affords a greater breadth of scope than is possible in the study of
Latin and Greek. The study of the Classical world is therefore open
to linguists and non-linguists alike.
Classical Civilisation to GCSE
As from September 2009, all pupils study either Latin or
Classical Civilisation in Year 9. Pupils are introduced to the
ancient world via a variety of perspectives: the relationship the
Greeks had with their gods; the stories they told of their heroes,
and why they told them; the wars that shook the Ancient Greek
World; and the effect that the Romans had on their provinces,
including Britain. The intention is that a boy's knowledge of the
ancient world will inform his understanding of the modern. Also,
while following this course, pupils devise posters and plays, enter
a national essay competition, and visit Hadrian's Wall. Classical
Civilsation will be a GCSE option for Year 10 in 2010-2011.
Classical Civilisation in the Sixth Form - the course
Classes are made up of students with varying degrees of
experience of the ancient world, ranging from none at all, if they
have joined us from another school, to several years' study of one
or more classical subjects; this variety is a strength, and the
conscientious student who comes to the subject for the first time
at A Level will not find himself at a disadvantage.
Classical Civilisation in the Sixth Form - the material
A wide range of material is studied over the two-year course.
While most of it is literary (Greek Tragedy, Epic Poetry), students
are encouraged to analyse the texts, not only as pieces of
literature, but also as historical sources; and, in the second year
of the course, Greek art and architecture is studied as a module
option, allowing students to comment on non-literary material.