Page 42 - Sixth Form Courses 2026-2028

A LEVEL
CLASSICAL CIVILISATION

OVERVIEW A level Classical Civilisation is a fascinating and varied subject offering excellent
opportunities to study elements of archaeology, art, history, literature, philosophy,
politics, drama, and the society of the classical world. The course goes far beyond
the reading of Greek and Roman myths and develops a detailed knowledge and
understanding of how different cultures and their literature are interconnected
and how they change over time influencing the present day. One of the fascinating
elements of studying ancient cultures is the imagination required where there is
less material evidence available; something which helps students to develop
open-mindedness and confidence in their own ideas. Classical Civilisation is ideal
for students with an interest in subjects such as History, Drama, Politics,
Philosophy and English.
Students develop the valuable transferable skills of logical thinking, critical
analysis and essay writing. The breadth of the course will appeal to students who
would like to learn about different aspects of the ancient world, such as its history,
mythology, literature and politics.

APPROACH All literature and sources are studied in English and there is no need for any prior
knowledge or study of the Classical world, or any knowledge of the Latin and
Greek languages.
Our Classics teachers are passionate about their subject and very approachable.
Students learn to read texts, analyse themes and characters, evaluate primary
source material and construct a balanced argument. We have a well-stocked
library of books and articles which students are encouraged to use. The school
library offers plenty of material relating to the subject, and there is a wealth of
resources online.
COURSE OUTLINE During the two-year course, there are three principle areas of study. The first unit,
‘The World of the Hero’, offers students the chance to study one of Homer’s epic
poems, the ‘Odyssey’, alongside Virgil’s ‘Aeneid’, arguably the most famous and
influential piece of Latin literature. Themes of the texts include heroes, the gods,
war, duty, love, mortality, family and adventure.
Two further units entitled ‘Invention of the Barbarian’ and ‘Love and Relationships’
are studied. Invention of the Barbarian deals with the Greek and Persian wars, the
Persian empire and Greek perceptions of themselves and foreigners. Love and
Relationships includes the study of different relationships in the ancient world,
looking at marriage, love, and the roles of men and women in society.

FURTHER INFORMATION The Classical Civilisation course works well with a range of subjects, such as
English, history, languages and humanities, and can also be studied as a written
subject alongside Maths or Sciences.
Students wishing to study classical, historical and English subjects at university are
encouraged to take Classical Civilisation. Universities view Classical Civilisation as
a rigorous A level which can lead to many degree choices. To study classical
subjects at university, including ancient languages, Latin and Greek A levels are not
a requirement. Therefore, Classical Civilisation provides particularly good
preparation for this particular course alongside many others.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS 5 (C+) English and an interest in classical civilisation.

EXAM BOARD AND OCR H408
SPECIFICATION https://www.ocr.org.uk/Images/315133-specification-accredited-a-level-classical-
civilisation-h408.pdf

CONTACT Head of Classics
Ms Heather Lindsay
lindsay.h@millfieldschool.com

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