Classical Civilisation

A subject not commonly offered by many school sixth-forms and colleges, Classical Civilisation offers the opportunity to study the literary and material culture of the ancient Greeks and Romans. You will explore aspects of classical civilisation which have been significant in the creation of the modern world, and develop an important understanding of classical societies and their culture and values.

This course will particularly appeal to students with an interest in literature, history, art and philosophy, and combines well with subjects including Ancient History, History, English Literature, Drama, Art and Philosophy. Areas of study include Homer's The Odyssey (the study of epic poetry, the historical background and culture of ancient Greece), Tragedy (Bacchae by Euripides, Oedipus the King by Sophocles) and Comedy (Frogs by Aristophanes). Virgil’s great work The Aeneid is also a key text of the course, the epic poem focuses on Aeneas and the creation of Rome and the parallels that can be drawn with Augustan Rome. We also spend time looking at the Greek and Roman view of love and relationships with specific interest in Plato, Sappho, Seneca and Ovid. 

The Henley College is delighted to announce that the world-renowned classicist, Professor Mary Beard of Newnham College Cambridge, has agreed to lend her support to its Classics and Ancient History Department.

Acclaimed classicist, writer and broadcaster, Natalie Haynes, has agreed to be a Patron of our Classics and Ancient History department. With an extensive career spanning radio, television and journalism, Natalie is a regular contributor on Radio 4 appearing on shows such as Woman’s Hour, You and Yours and A Good Read. Natalie also presents her own show, Natalie Haynes Stands Up for the Classics, with the fourth series airing in 2018. Natalie's support will be a huge benefit to us and our students

Before You Start

You may be required to complete an activity before you start in order to help introduce you to the subject. Check back in the summer term for more details.

Year 1

In the first year students will study two modules, focusing primarily on Greek literature. The first module you will study is Homer’s Odyssey, an epic poem which has had a profound influence on western culture. The second module focuses of Greek Theatre, which comprises a study of the context and history of theatre in Athens, as well as focused study of three plays. The plays you will look at are the tragedies Oedipus the King by Sophocles, and Bacchae by Euripides, as well as Aristophanes’ comedy Frogs.

Year 2

The second year sees a return to epic poetry, with Virgil’s Aeneid as the first module. This study of this epic poem is firmly situated in its historical context, and you will study it in comparison to Homer’s work, which was a key influence on Virgil. The second module you will study is Love and Relationships. This module focuses on the philosophy and thought around this topic in the ancient world, and takes a very broad look at this, using a huge variety of sources. You will also look in detail at the poetry of Sappho and Ovid, and the philosophy of Plato and Seneca.

You are also encouraged to supplement your programme with the Extended Project.

Find out more about The Extended Project

Careers

There are various career options that may attract classicists including teaching, academia, museums work, archaeology, archive work, librarianship and more.   Students may consider direct entry into employment or further training.

Higher Education

Whilst many students continue on to study subjects including classics, ancient or modern history, English literature and philosophy at university, this course provides a strong grounding for those wishing to pursue many other subject areas at degree level.

Alternatively, students may consider direct entry into employment or further training.

Students are required to complete at least 30 hours of enrichment per academic year whilst studying at The Henley College, learn more about Enrichment here.

Learn more about our application process here.