Classical Civilization Curriculum

This one-year AS course is designed to provide an interesting and enjoyable study of the ancient world and its literature, as well as to develop an awareness of the influence of the classical civilizations of Greece and Rome on our world today. More generally, students will gain a sensitivity to societies whose spiritual and moral values and priorities contrast with those of the modern western world. No knowledge of the Latin or Greek languages is necessary: all literary texts and historical sources are studied in English translation.

The three AS units (which are equally weighted) are:

1. Greek / Roman epic: extracts from either Homer’s Iliad or Virgil’s Aeneid allow you to explore Greek codes of heroism, reputation, honour, and revenge against the backdrop of some of the most enduringly popular stories ever told. You will also consider the role of women in these poems, and their place in ancient society.

2. Greek Tragedy: an introduction to three plays by Sophocles and Aeschylus looks at one of Greek literature’s most important legacies to western thought—tragedy. The Greeks sought in these dramas to establish the limits of human freedom. You will analyse the role of the gods and fate in human endeavour, examining the extent to which we can each be held responsible for the bad things that happen to us.

3. Roman Britain: this unit deals with history and archaeology, studying Julius Caesar’s early campaigns and the factors which influenced the later Roman decision to invade Britain. You will also learn about the impact the Roman invasion had on early British society and about the valiant Celtic resistance to that occupation; you will also discuss the Romans’ misconceptions and stereotypes about our late Iron Age ancestors.

At A2, units in Roman Epic (Virgil's Aeneid), Greek Tragedy (Euripides), and Greek Art and Architecture are studied.

As well as seeing the Roman collections in Edinburgh’s Royal Museum of Scotland, the course will include an opportunity to visit the Roman forts of Vindolanda on Hadrian’s Wall and Segedunum at Wallsend, and the renowned Shefton Museum of Greek Art and Archaeology at Newcastle University. These visits should be regarded as integral to the course.

Dr Nigel Mortimer,

Assistant Head