Classical Civilisation offers students the opportunity to explore the literature, culture, and ideas of the ancient Greek and Roman worlds. Through the study of literary texts, visual materials, and ancient thought, students develop a broad understanding of the societies that shaped the classical world, and their historical and cultural contexts. The course provides a rewarding and varied experience, encouraging students to engage with some of the most influential stories, beliefs, artworks, and ideas in human history while developing critical analysis and interpretation skills.

GCSE English Language grade 4 or above.

Component One, The World of the Hero
In this component, students study two of the most influential works of classical literature: Homer’s Odyssey and Virgil’s Aeneid. Through these epic poems, students will explore heroes, gods, and mythical figures while developing an understanding of the values, beliefs, and cultures of ancient Greece and Rome.

Component Two – Greek Theatre
Students explore the importance of theatre in Ancient Greek society through the study of three influential plays: Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex, Euripides’ Bacchae, and Aristophanes’ Frogs. Alongside the plays, students investigate theatre spaces, staging practices, and visual evidence to understand how drama was performed and why it was such a significant part of Greek culture.

Component Three – Greek Religion
In the final component, students explore the central role of religion in Ancient Greek society and daily life. They examine the nature of the Olympian gods, religious rituals and festivals, mystery cults, and the relationship between gods and mortals. Students also study important archaeological sites, including the Athenian Acropolis, Olympia, and Delphi, to understand how religion shaped Greek identity, politics, and culture.

Each component is assessed by a single paper.

Component One – the World of the Hero
Written exam: 2 hours 20 minutes
There are three question types in this exam, including the 10 mark stimulus question, and 20 mark and 30 mark essay questions.
40% of A Level

Component Two – Greek Theatre
Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes
There are four question types in this exam, they include short answer questions, 10 mark stimulus question, 20 and 30 mark essay questions.
30% of A Level

Component Three – Greek Religion
Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes
There are five question types in this exam, they include short answer questions, 10 mark stimulus question, 10 mark idea question, 20 mark and 30 mark essay questions.
30% of A Level

Classical Civilisation is an academically rigorous subject that develops valuable skills in critical thinking, analysis, evaluation, research, and written communication. Students learn to interpret a wide range of literary, historical, and archaeological evidence while constructing well-supported arguments. These skills provide excellent preparation for degree courses in Classics, History, English, Law, Archaeology, Philosophy, Politics, and other humanities subjects. The course also supports a wide range of careers, including teaching, law, journalism, publishing, marketing, public relations, civil service, and many other professional fields.