Classical Civilisation

The aims of the OCR course are as follows:

• To acquire some understanding, in its historical context, of the civilisations studied,
  through literature, art, archaeology and other evidence.
• To acquire awareness of the differences and similarities between the classical
  civilisations and their own, and of the influence of the one on the other.

• To read, understand, appreciate and respond to some of the literature in translation.

We read a wide range of literature in translation.  Starting with a selection from Homer’s Odyssey, we move on to read some Greek drama (e.g. Antigone and Oedipus the King by Sophocles).  We usually manage to get to see a live performance of a Greek play.  We also read a collection of ancient myths from Ovid’s Metamorphoses, which include Jason and the Argonauts, Daedalus and Icarus, Theseus and the Minotaur.

We also cover four civilisation topics – Sparta, Greek Athletics, Theatre and the origins of drama, and Roman Britain.  As part of our study of Roman Britain, we visit archaeological sites, such as Caerwent and Caerleon.  20% of the marks are awarded for coursework and this we do on Roman Britain, collecting useful evidence on our site visits.

This course is open to pupils with no previous experience of the subject.  The subject is also offered at A-level.  Classical Civilisation students normally get the opportunity to visit Greece and Rome.  We have also recently been to Sicily and Hadrian’s Wall.

R.S.

Personal & Social Education

English

History

Geography

Economics

Mathematics

The Sciences - an overview

Physics

Chemistry

Biology

Latin

Classics

French

German

Spanish

Art and Design

Design and
Technology

Music

Drama

Information
Technology

PE

Careers

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