Classical Civilisation

If you wish to select Classical Civilisation, you also need to have selected History as one of your other choices. This is because this is a new subject for you at year 10 and so the skills and content of your History learning will support your success in this course.

Key Information

Studying GCSE Classical Civilisations will help you to answer questions such as: 

• Who are the Greek and Roman Gods and Goddesses?

• What was life like living in Ancient Rome?

• What did Romans get up to in the bath?

• What were the myths about the Greek and Roman Underworld?

• How did Romans spend their time - Gladiators, Chariot racing and Theatres?

• Why is Hercules so famous today and who is Heracles?

The GCSE course covers archaeology, classical architecture, politics, philosophy, ethics, satire, religious and world views, and historical context. 

Classical Civilisations is one of the most academically prestigious subjects, mostly studied at Independant (Private) schools. A GCSE qualification in Classical Civilisations will be invaluable for those aspiring to study at university and a myriad of careers.

Subject Information

If you take Classical Civilisations you will be studying two topics. 

Topic 1 - Myths and Religion

• Introduction to Greek and Roman Gods and Goddesses

• How were they worshipped?

• Greek and Roman view of the Underworld

• Greek and Roman Gods in art, architecture and literature

• The founding of Athens - Poseidon and Athena

• The founding of Rome - Romulus and Remus

• Greek and Roman festivals - Festival of the Dead, Lupercalia and Saturnalia

• Myths of Theseus and Hercules

Topic 2 - Roman City Life

• Roman slaves and society

• Dangers of city life

• Life for the rich and poor

• Leisure and entertainment - Chariot races, theatres and gladiators

• Roman baths

• Smiling and angry satire

In addition to studying the two topics, you will learn a range of transferable skills that will help you with your future studies at college and the wider world of work.

Develops English literacy: You will receive practice in essay writing and source analysis. You will also be analysing a range of literature to develop your English skills.

Aids cultural literacy: Classical mythology forms the basis of much modern art and literature, and is constantly reworked in film and culture. You will recognise the origin of many modern day stories, films and plays. 

Teaches the foundations of philosophy and politics: The ancient Greeks and Romans have heavily influenced our society and thought. They established the disciplines of philosophy and the foundations of our political systems.

Encourages cultural insight: In some ways, the ancient Greeks and the Romans seem just like us, but in other ways, they are very different. This helps you to appreciate the cultural differences in modern society.

Allows for depth and breadth: The study of classical civilisations is interdisciplinary. It involves literature, history, philosophy and the visual arts. It is a wide ranging subject involving the study of literature, art, artefacts, archaeological sites, and the ancient historical context, this bridges many subjects and encourages you to make links between your subjects.

Improves employment opportunities: Evidence suggests that employers have respect for potential employees who have studied classical subjects at school or university.

Encourages clarity of thought, attention to detail, and the ability to argue a case: The GCSE will help develop your analytical and critical thinking skills. It focuses on how to argue a case using evidence. 

Assessment

Final examination at the end of Year 11 in the form of two GCSE examinations, each contributing 50% of the final grade. The questions all use sources to support your answers. You will also need your own knowledge to support your answers. 

Is this course right for me?

You can expect your teachers to have high expectations of you. Classical Civilisations is a challenging course that requires you to read and analyse difficult sources. You will be expected to work hard in lessons and independently at home. There is a high quantity of written work, both in lessons and at home.

You will be working with a wide range of archaeological, literary and visual  sources and there will be lots of different activities in lessons! There will be opportunities to visit several historical sites across the country, including Fishbourne Roman Palace and the Roman Baths in Bath.

Classical Civilisations is open and accessible to all pupils. We would expect anyone who studies Classics to have a love for:

●        Visiting historical sites

●        Learning about Ancient Greek and Roman beliefs and life

●        Reading 

●        Writing - Pupils will work towards producing extended essay style answers to exam questions.

What can this lead to?

This course is ideal if you are interested in further study at A Level. It would help support A Level in Classical Civilisations, Ancient History, English Literature, Fine Art, Politics, Philosophy, and Archaeology.

Studying Classical Civilisations can also lead on to some exciting career options, including: 

• Politics

• Journalism

• TV

• Law 

• Marketing

• Archaeology