Course details may be subject to change.
If you are interested in studying A Levels at New College Durham please just complete one application form and you will be able to choose your subjects once you have had your interview. You do not need to apply for each of the subjects you are interested.
This course allows you to look at many aspects of the classical world which are significant in the development of the modern world. You will study Homer’s epic poem The Odyssey, Greek Theatre, Virgil’s Aeneid and Love and Relationships in Greece and Rome.
In addition to being excellent preparation for further study in the Classics, a study of Classical Civilisation complements many other popular A-Levels including Art, English Literature, Government and Politics, History, and Philosophy.
Entry Criteria
You will hold 5 GCSEs at grade 4/C, including maths and English, plus a 5 in English Language or Literature.
What are the next steps?
You will meet with a course tutor; please bring a copy of your GCSE grades or predicted GCSE grades.
Study Aims
This course aims to allow learners to:
- Acquire a sophisticated level of knowledge and understanding of the literature and culture of the classical world through studying a diverse range of ancient material and making connections and comparisons between them.
- Understand classical literature, thought and material culture in its context; including how issues and values relevant to the society in which they were created are reflected in ancient sources and materials.
- Further develop skills of critical analysis and evaluation and apply these to the range of source materials studied in order to gain insight into aspects of the classical world.
- Articulate an informed response to the material studied, using a range of appropriate evidence to formulate coherent arguments with substantiated evidence based judgements.
- Acquire a sound basis for further study of the classical world.
Modules Studied
Year 1: The world of the hero (part 1): Homer’s Odyssey
- A study of the mythical Greek hero Odysseus, and his return journey from Troy, in Homer’s epic poem The Odyssey.
- The nature of comedy: The study of Aristophanes’ Frogs where the God Dionysus descends into the underworld in search of dead playwrights.
- The nature of tragedy: Euripides’ Bacchae where The tragedy is based on the Greek myth of King Pentheus of Thebes and his mother Agave, and their punishment by the god Dionysus for slander.
- Architecture and material goods, including the study of the Athenian Acropolis.
Year 2: The world of the hero (part 2): Aeneas
- A study of the mythical Roman hero Aeneas in Virgil’s epic poem The Aeneid.
- Love and Desire - A critical study of the philosophical approaches to love from Greek philosopher Plato and Roman philosopher Seneca.
- Love and Relationships - Depictions of love in ancient literature from the Roman poet Ovid and the Greek female poet Sappho.
Teaching and Assessment
You will be taught be lecturers who are specialists in their subjects. Teaching is classroom based and involves group work and individual work. Independent study is essential outside of the classroom and frequent homework will be given. You will sit monthly in-class assessment for which you will receive extensive feedback as well as other assessments throughout the academic year which will help you track your progress.
Terminal exams will be in May/June.
Maths and English
Maths and English skills will be embedded and will continue to be throughout your programme.
Placement
Work placements are an important part of the programme and all learners will be given assistance in finding a suitable position.
You could progress to study for a degree in a relevant subject, such as Classical Studies, or Philosophy.
