Classical Civilisation
Head of Department: S.J. Chambers, MA (Cambridge)Course Specification: OCR HO41/H41
The Classical Civilisation course looks at several aspects of the ancient
world, from the art of Classical Athens to some of the greatest works of dramatic
and epic literature. Inevitably various teaching methods are involved in studying
works of art and literature. There is a commitment to essay writing, but knowledge
of the texts and art is also explored through class discussion and context
questions. There are excellent collections of Greek art in London and Cambridge
which can be visited. In support of the study of the plays it is usually possible
to see a touring production by “The Actors of Dionysus” or during
the annual London Festival of Greek Drama.
An ability to read and respond to a variety of literary stimuli, together
with essay-writing skills, will be an advantage to pupils opting for this
course. No previous knowledge of the ancient world or the classical languages
is needed. A significant number of pupils choose to continue their studies
of the ancient world with degree courses in Classics, Classical Civilisation,
Ancient History and Archaeology.
There will be an opportunity at the beginning of the Easter Quarter for Fifth Form pupils to attend a short introductory talk to find out more about the Classical Civilisation Course.
Pattern of Assessment
| AS Unit 1 F382 Homer’s Odyssey and Society 1½ hours written exam [25%] |
Study of Homer, Odyssey. Context questions from Books 4-12, 18-22. |
| AS Unit 2 F384 Greek Tragedy in its Context 1½ hours written exam [25%] |
Study of four set plays by Aeschylus: Agamemnon, Sophocles: Oedipus the King, Euripides: Medea and Bacchae. |
| A2 Unit 3 F388 Art and Architecture in the Greek World 1½ hours written exam [25%] |
Study of prescribed Greek sculptures, temples and
vases. |
| A2 Unit 4 F390 The Epic and the Age of Augustus 1½ hours written exam [25%] |
Study of Virgil’s Aeneid and Homer’s Iliad. |
Pupils who opt to take Classical Civilisation AS will complete their examinations in the Trinity Quarter of the Lower Sixth.