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VCE Classical Studies
VCE Classical Studies
VCE Classical Studies is a history subject that explores the ancient Greek world, especially through the written works from that time. Study is undertaken by analysing classical works, such as mythologies, written texts, art and artefacts, that were produced in the classical world. Students consider these works in their socio-historical contexts, evaluating and comparing what they reveal about the ideas, beliefs and attitudes of the society in which they were created.
VCE Classical Studies is a foundational Humanities subject – a multifaceted study that encompasses drama, epic poetry, history, philosophy, artworks, architecture and archaeological artefacts.
What subjects complement VCE Classical Studies?
VCE Classical Studies fits with many subjects, however it particularly resonates with:
VCE History (Modern and Revolutions) - similar historical thinking skills
VCE English, Literature and EAL - similar analytical reading of texts to understand the ideas and values of other people
Who should study VCE Classical Studies?
This is a diverse subject that explores topics from politics to literature, myths to wars. In particular, it would interest students who:
Enjoy learning about the past
Are passionate about understanding the world from other people's perspective
Want to extend their reading and writing skills
Unit 1: Mythical Worlds
Unit 1: Mythical Worlds
This unit of study explores the myths of ancient Greece, the search for their meaning, and their contribution to both classical and modern culture.
Myths are traditional narratives that examine ideas of central importance to a society. They were used by the Greeks to explain the world, the foundation of institutions, aspects of daily life and the human condition. In the classical world, myth encompassed the nature of the gods, the deeds of heroes like Achilles and Theseus, and the epic voyages of Odysseus and Jason.
Students also explore the history of archaeology in the Mediterranean Basin, observing how the pioneers of archaeology sought to explain the possible historical basis of particular myths.
Unit 2: Classical Worlds
Unit 2: Classical Worlds
In this unit students examine classical society. They discover how mythic systems, ideas and beliefs, and classical works were integral to the fabric of classical culture.
Students analyse the ways in which creators of classical works convey ideas and beliefs in their works and how the works link to, and are influenced by, their socio-historical contexts.
Unit 3: Classical Expressions
Unit 3: Classical Expressions
In this unit students engage with two forms of cultural expression of the classical world: epic poetry (Homer's Iliad) and material culture (monuments, buildings, artworks). Students develop their breadth of classical interpretation by examining two vastly different mediums through which classical societies expressed ideas and understandings.
Unit 4: Classical Perspectives
Unit 4: Classical Perspectives
In this unit students engage with the intellectual life of the classical world through a thematic cultural study of an overarching concern of classical culture and through analysis, evaluation and comparison of a range of different works. Students are exposed to a range of forms and genres of classical written and material works.
Students analyse and evaluate the significance of a key concern of the classical world (identity, power or war) to understand how producers of works across forms, genres, and time engaged with similar ideas.
Students engage in an in-depth comparative study of two prescribed works.
Please see Mr Musumeci (bmu@gwsc.vic.edu.au) or Miss Khoweiss (dkh@gwsc.vic.edu.au) for more information.
Middle School Upstairs - Staffroom 7
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