Classical Civilisation Subject Information
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L6
CLASSICAL CIVILISATION
L6
Classical Civilisation at AS Level makes a brilliant introduction for students to the study of the
ancient world. With no language requirements from Latin or Greek, students are free to
explore the lives, loves and literature of the Classical past, learning much about themselves
and our common heritage on the way. Modules covered this year are Unit 1: Greek
Sculpture and Architecture and Unit 2: Homer’s Odyssey.
Autumn
Unit 1: Greek Sculpture and Architecture explores the Archaic and Classical
Greek world by examining closely both their magnificent temple buildings
and their journey towards realism and perfection in art. Ancient Olympia,
home of the Games, and the Athenian Acropolis represent two major
sources of interest. How did the Greeks journey from stick figures to some of
the most sublime depictions of the human form? This module seeks to find
out!
Unit 2: One of the all-time classic tales, Homer’s Odyssey is not just a
brilliant read. On one level, the story of one man and his followers trying to
return home from the Trojan War, beset by the wrath of the gods, thwarted
by enemies and great danger. On another level, a fascinating exploration of
human nature, man’s relationship with others and the gods, and the
enduring power of love. Not to be missed!
Spring
Lower Sixth Spring Term:
Summer
The John Lyon School KS5 Course (AQA)
CLASSICAL CIVILISATION
Lower Sixth Autumn Term:
Continued study of Greek Art and The Odyssey, as above.
Lower Sixth Summer Term:
Consolidation and revision; examination practice.
What could I do with this subject?
Classical Civilisation represents the ultimate multi-disciplinary subject at A-Level. Students
will encounter amazing insights from archaeological science, art history, architecture, fine
arts, history and literature to broaden their skills and knowledge across a wide spectrum.
Brilliant for those considering degrees in Archaeology, Classics, English, History, Journalism,
Politics and related disciplines.
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U6
CLASSICAL CIVILISATION
U6
A-Level students continuing with Classical Civilisation at A2 expand their knowledge and
experience of the ancient world by studying Unit 3: Mycenaean Civilisation and Unit 4:
Roman Epic. These options provide a stimulating and varied approach utilising both
archaeology and literature – two of the main strands required for achieving a balanced view
of the past (with lessons for the present!)
Autumn
Journeying back to the late 2nd millennium BCE, students continue their
study of ancient Greece – in this instance, ancient Hellas of the Late Bronze
Age. Greece during the time of the fabled Trojan Wars represents a
fascinating study: mighty fortress citadels, elaborate palace complexes,
grave circles and tholos tombs, gold masks, enamelled swords and other
fearsome weapons. Homer’s warrior society comes alive as we focus our
exploration on the sites of Mycenae, Tiryns and ‘sandy’ Pylos.
Having studied The Odyssey last year, students in A2 examine the Latin epic
tradition in translation – Virgil’s Aeneid is the primary focus. The Aeneid tells
the story of Rome’s foundations from the ashes of Troy, tracing the
adventure-filled journey of Aeneas and his followers across the
Mediterranean to Italy. Journeys to the Underworld, perilous storms and a
queen’s love-inspired suicide are but a prelude to the great battles that the
future Romans will face. Virgil’s epic masterpiece is also a product of its
time, with much that students can learn of imperial Rome within its pages.
Fascinating stuff!
Spring
Upper Sixth Spring Term:
Summer
The John Lyon School KS5 A-Level Course (AQA)
CLASSICAL CIVILISATION
Upper Sixth Autumn Term:
Continued study of Mycenaean Civilisation and Roman Epic, as above.
Upper Sixth Summer Term:
Consolidation and revision; examination practice
What could I do with this subject?
Classical Civilisation represents the ultimate multi-disciplinary subject at A-Level. Students
will encounter amazing insights from archaeological science, art history, architecture, fine
arts, history and literature to broaden their skills and knowledge across a wide spectrum.
Brilliant for those considering degrees in Archaeology, Classics, English, History, Journalism,
Politics and related disciplines.
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