Classics (Latin, Greek and Classical Civilisation)

Classics is the study of a complete civilisation – from political theory to literature, from history to art – and as such it is a highly-regarded way of demonstrating all-round academic and applied ability.

Whilst fascinating in their own right, Classical subjects are also an ideal complement to a host of other options. An A Level in a classical subject does not necessarily mean Classics at university and many students go on to read Mathematics, Engineering, Natural Sciences, Law, Music, Modern Languages to name just a few of the routes open to Classicists.

Latin and Greek
Both language and literature are studied. Set texts are studied with a combination of prose and verse, as at GCSE level. Language work continues to support the understanding of the literature and subsequently the discussion of its qualities and style. Students enjoy reading ‘real’ Latin or Greek, not heavily adapted as at GCSE. In Latin, we usually read a portion of epic poetry and a historian or orator. In Greek, it is usually Oratory or History, and Homer, followed by a tragedy or comedy.

Classical Civilization
Classical Civilisation is a natural progression from GCSE level, but those with no prior knowledge of the subject are at no disadvantage, and there is no Latin or Greek language element to the course. Topics studied are dramatic and fascinating, and together give a broad overview of the ancient world. Topics include Homeric epic, Greek art and the politics of the late Roman republic. If you haven’t taken the subject before it is preferable to have high levels of literary and evaluation skills (such as are found in English and History) to be successful in the A Level course.

Full details of all courses are detailed in the A Level course guide

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