AS Level Classical Civilisation

Classical Civilisation is a varied subject, covering the history, literature, myth, religion, politics, philosophy and culture of the Greeks and Romans. It aims to give students a detailed understanding of this fascinating world and an appreciation of its massive influence. No prior knowledge is necessary when choosing the subject at A Level and some of the most famous people and events of Greece and Rome are covered, including the Trojan War, Oedipus and Antony and Cleopatra. During their study, students are encouraged to sharpen critical thinking and analytical skills in making sense of these events and personalities. In both written and oral responses, students will be attempting to consider a culture that deals with some fundamental aspects of human existence in a very different way. This should be both fulfilling and valuable.

AS UNITS

CIV2B – HOMER, THE ODYSSEY (GREEK EPIC)

How much suffering can a man endure for the love of his wife and home?

The Odyssey is a famous ‘epic poem’ dealing in Greek myth. Homer’s work was seen as the starting point for all literature in the ancient world and a study of his tales of Greek gods and the exploits of heroes such as Odysseus, Achilles and Agamemnon allow us to explore Greek customs and value systems. We will consider how the main character, Odysseus, faces up to the many challenges he is set and judge him, and others in the epic, by their actions and behaviour. We will also be judging Homer, the master storyteller, and reflecting on what makes his epic poem so compelling and timeless.

CIV1A – GREEK ARCHITECTURE AND SCULPTURE

How did the Greeks see themselves?

The ‘Golden Age’ of Greece is explored more closely in the second unit. Iconic buildings in Athens, Olympia, Delphi and Italy are studied and the most influential Greek sculpture interpreted in order to gain an understanding of how Greek society operated. Some of the cultural and political background to this so called ‘Golden Age’ will be studied and the development of the representation in sculpture of people and gods is also a primary focus.

A2 UNITS

CIV3C – GREEK TRAGEDY

How secure are the great achievements of man?

Greek Tragedy introduces you to the most powerful dramatic productions ever performed. The themes of the plays by Sophocles and Euripides still resonate today and are universal. Oedipus the King deals with themes of power and pride; the Medea deals with love, marriage breakdown and revenge. All tragic plays ask fundamental questions about human existence and experience. An attempt to interpret these famous plays brings us closer to an understanding of the society that first developed drama as we know it.

CIV4C – ROMAN EPIC

Is freedom a price worth paying for peace?

Roman Epic focusses upon the first emperor of Rome; Augustus. He is famous for bringing peace to Rome, but the events that define the ‘Augustan Age’ are some of the most memorable in history. The assassination of Julius Caesar, Antony and Cleopatra, Hannibal’s campaigns against the Roman Empire; these are what defined the roman character. We will focus upon Virgil’s epic poem The Aeneid which is considered to be the masterpiece of Roman literature and, in the process, we will learn about Roman customs and society.

How you will gain the qualification

A variety of assessments are used throughout the period of study and an internal Mock Exam is completed for both AS and A2 students . External exams are taken in May/June of the AS and A2 years.

All units are equally weighted. All examinations are 1 ½ hours in duration and comprise short and long answer questions.

What qualifications you need

College entry requirements:

Students wishing to study AS/A Level at Coleg Cambria require a minimum of 6 GCSEs including English Language at grade C or above.

Where to next

A Level Classical Civilisation is well-regarded by universities and employers alike as it is academic in focus and rigorous, with an emphasis on evaluation and analysis. Students with good grades are considered to be capable of higher level skills and find employment in a host of areas including journalism, marketing, the law, teaching, the Civil Service and other public services. Classical Civilisation produces versatile students whose ability to think critically and communicate coherently are highly prized in the workplace.