Classical Civilisation Revision — OCR A-Level

    Complete OCR A-Level Classical Civilisation specification revision resources. Tailored syllabus coverage with topic breakdowns, quizzes, and practice questions.

    Overview

    The OCR A-Level Classical Civilisation course offers an immersive journey into the literature, history, and culture of ancient Greece and Rome. It is designed to foster a deep appreciation of classical antiquity through the study of epic poetry, drama, art, and political thought. The compulsory component, 'The World of the Hero', places Homer's 'Odyssey' and Virgil's 'Aeneid' at the heart of the syllabus, exploring timeless themes of heroism, fate, and divine intervention.

    Beyond the core, students select two further components from a broad range of options grouped into 'Culture and the Arts' and 'Beliefs and Ideas'. This structure allows for specialisation in areas like Greek theatre, art, love and relationships, or the politics of the late Roman Republic. Throughout, the course emphasises critical engagement with primary sources — both literary and visual — and encourages students to grapple with moral and philosophical questions that remain strikingly relevant today.

    Assessment is entirely through written examinations, with no coursework, rewarding the ability to analyse, evaluate, and construct coherent arguments under timed conditions. The specification is clear and logically organised, with each paper targeting specific assessment objectives, making revision straightforward and transparent. This qualification not only provides a solid foundation for further study of classics but also develops transferable skills highly valued by universities and employers.

    Why Choose OCR for Classical Civilisation?

    OCR's specification is renowned for its coherent and rigorous structure, with a clear compulsory element that ensures all students gain a strong grounding in classical epic, while the extensive optional topics allow for a tailored learning experience — from Greek art to the politics of the late Roman Republic.

    The exam-only assessment model suits students who thrive under timed conditions and prefer to concentrate their efforts on mastering exam technique rather than juggling coursework projects. The transparent mark schemes and accessible past papers make it easier to understand what examiners are looking for.

    As a leading exam board in classical subjects, OCR offers exceptional support materials, including high-quality endorsed textbooks, detailed specimen papers, and extensive online resources that are frequently updated. This rich ecosystem helps both teachers and students navigate the specification with confidence.

    Assessment & Exam Structure

    The OCR A-Level Classical Civilisation qualification is assessed via three written examination papers. Paper 1: 'The World of the Hero' is compulsory, lasts 2 hours 30 minutes, and contributes 40% (100 marks) of the total A-Level. Papers 2 and 3 are chosen from the two component groups, each lasting 1 hour 45 minutes and contributing 30% (75 marks each). There is no coursework element, meaning the entire grade is determined by exam performance. This structure provides a clear, focused assessment of students' knowledge and analytical skills.

    Specification Topics

    Top Exam Board Tips

    Common Mistakes to Avoid

    Key Terminology & Definitions

    {"theme":"Kleos and Time","description":"The central motivation for Homeric heroes; 'kleos' is the immortal fame achieved through 'time' (honour/prizes) earned in battle.","key_moments":["Iliad Book 1: The dispute over Briseis","Iliad Book 9: The Embassy to Achilles","Odyssey Book 9: Odysseus revealing his name to the Phaeacians"]}
    {"theme":"Pietas","description":"The defining Roman virtue of Aeneas, representing duty to the gods, family (specifically the father), and the state (Rome).","key_moments":["Aeneid Book 2: Aeneas carrying Anchises from Troy","Aeneid Book 4: Aeneas' departure from Dido to fulfill his destiny","Aeneid Book 6: The meeting with Anchises in the Underworld"]}
    {"theme":"The Role of the Gods","description":"Divine intervention acts as both a catalyst for plot and a reflection of the hero's status; gods often represent externalized psychological states.","key_moments":["Iliad Book 1: Athena restraining Achilles' wrath","Odyssey Book 1: The Council of the Gods","Aeneid Book 1: Juno's storm and Venus' intervention"]}
    {"theme":"Nostos (Homecoming)","description":"The physical and psychological journey back to one's home and rightful place in society, central to the Odyssey and the first half of the Aeneid.","key_moments":["Odyssey Book 5: Odysseus on Calypso's island","Odyssey Book 13: Odysseus' arrival in Ithaca","Aeneid Book 3: The search for the 'ancient mother'"]}

    Classical Civilisation

    OCR
    A-Level

    Specification: OCR-A-Level-Classical-Civilisation

    The OCR A-Level Classical Civilisation specification covers 64 topics with 0 learning objectives (OCR-A-Level-Classical-Civilisation). Use the topic browser below to explore subtopics, exam tips, common mistakes, and key terminology for each area of the course.

    This subject will help you develop key knowledge and skills required for exam success.

    64

    Topics

    0

    Objectives

    314

    Exam Tips

    308

    Pitfalls

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    Key Features

    • Master key concepts
    • Develop exam technique
    • Apply knowledge effectively

    About OCR A-Level Classical Civilisation

    The OCR A-Level Classical Civilisation course offers an immersive journey into the literature, history, and culture of ancient Greece and Rome. It is designed to foster a deep appreciation of classical antiquity through the study of epic poetry, drama, art, and political thought. The compulsory component, 'The World of the Hero', places Homer's 'Odyssey' and Virgil's 'Aeneid' at the heart of the syllabus, exploring timeless themes of heroism, fate, and divine intervention.

    Beyond the core, students select two further components from a broad range of options grouped into 'Culture and the Arts' and 'Beliefs and Ideas'. This structure allows for specialisation in areas like Greek theatre, art, love and relationships, or the politics of the late Roman Republic. Throughout, the course emphasises critical engagement with primary sources — both literary and visual — and encourages students to grapple with moral and philosophical questions that remain strikingly relevant today.

    Assessment is entirely through written examinations, with no coursework, rewarding the ability to analyse, evaluate, and construct coherent arguments under timed conditions. The specification is clear and logically organised, with each paper targeting specific assessment objectives, making revision straightforward and transparent. This qualification not only provides a solid foundation for further study of classics but also develops transferable skills highly valued by universities and employers.

    Assessment Structure

    The OCR A-Level Classical Civilisation qualification is assessed via three written examination papers. Paper 1: 'The World of the Hero' is compulsory, lasts 2 hours 30 minutes, and contributes 40% (100 marks) of the total A-Level. Papers 2 and 3 are chosen from the two component groups, each lasting 1 hour 45 minutes and contributing 30% (75 marks each). There is no coursework element, meaning the entire grade is determined by exam performance. This structure provides a clear, focused assessment of students' knowledge and analytical skills.

    Why Choose OCR?

    • OCR's specification is renowned for its coherent and rigorous structure, with a clear compulsory element that ensures all students gain a strong grounding in classical epic, while the extensive optional topics allow for a tailored learning experience — from Greek art to the politics of the late Roman Republic.
    • The exam-only assessment model suits students who thrive under timed conditions and prefer to concentrate their efforts on mastering exam technique rather than juggling coursework projects. The transparent mark schemes and accessible past papers make it easier to understand what examiners are looking for.
    • As a leading exam board in classical subjects, OCR offers exceptional support materials, including high-quality endorsed textbooks, detailed specimen papers, and extensive online resources that are frequently updated. This rich ecosystem helps both teachers and students navigate the specification with confidence.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Assessment Objectives

    AO1
    50%-55%

    Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of: • literature and either visual/material culture or classical thought • how sources and ideas reflect, and influence, their cultural contexts • possible interpretations of sources, perspectives and ideas by different audiences and individuals

    AO2
    50%-55%

    Critically analyse, interpret and evaluate literature, and either visual/material culture or classical thought, using evidence to make substantiated judgements and produce coherent and reasoned arguments

    What Gets Top Grades

    A*/Grade 9

    Knowledge & Understanding

    Demonstrates comprehensive and accurate knowledge

    • Uses correct subject-specific terminology
    • Shows detailed understanding of concepts
    • Makes accurate connections between topics
    • Demonstrates depth beyond surface-level knowledge

    Application

    Applies knowledge effectively to new contexts

    • Selects relevant knowledge for the question
    • Adapts understanding to unfamiliar scenarios
    • Uses examples appropriately
    • Shows awareness of context

    Analysis & Evaluation

    Develops sophisticated analytical arguments

    • Constructs logical chains of reasoning
    • Considers multiple perspectives
    • Weighs evidence to reach justified conclusions
    • Acknowledges limitations and nuances

    Key Command Words

    OCR
    State
    1 mark

    Give a single fact or term

    Identify
    1 mark

    Name or select

    Describe
    2-4 marks

    Account of process or features

    Explain
    3-6 marks

    Give reasons with BUSINESS-FACING outcomes

    Analyse
    6-9 marks

    Examine methodically showing cause→effect→outcome

    Evaluate
    9-12 marks

    Judge, weigh up evidence, reach SYNOPTIC conclusion

    Common Exam Mistakes

    Pitfalls to avoid in your exams

    • •Failing to use secondary sources or academic views in 30-mark essay responses.
    • •Neglecting the social, historical, and cultural context of the texts.
    • •Focusing only on plot summary rather than critical analysis and evaluation.
    • •Failing to address the specific requirements of the question (e.g., ignoring a stimulus passage).
    • •Lack of balance in depth of study between the Homeric text and the Aeneid.
    • •Failing to make explicit connections between the primary text and the historical/cultural context.
    • •Neglecting to use secondary scholarship in the 30-mark essay.
    • •Focusing only on plot summary rather than critical analysis of themes and characterisation.

    Top Examiner Tips

    Expert advice for exam success

    • •Ensure equal depth of study for both the chosen Homeric epic and Virgil’s Aeneid.
    • •Practice responding to stimulus passages by directly referencing the provided text.
    • •Develop a bank of secondary scholars and academic views to integrate into essay arguments.
    • •Focus on the 'how' and 'why' of literary techniques rather than just identifying them.
    • •Use the full 2 hours and 30 minutes effectively, allocating time according to the mark tariff of each question.
    • •Ensure equal depth of study for both the Homeric epic and the Aeneid.
    • •Practice responding to stimulus passages by identifying specific literary techniques (e.g., similes, speeches, formulae) and explaining their effect on the reader.
    • •Develop a bank of secondary scholars and academic arguments to integrate into your 30-mark essays.

    Specification Topics

    64 topics

    The World of the Hero (Component)

    The World of the Hero (H408/11) is a compulsory component focusing on the study of epic literature in translation. It requires an in-depth study of one of Homer’s epics (Iliad or Odyssey) and Virgil’s Aeneid. The component explores the composition, structure, and themes of these epics, as well as the religious, cultural, and social values of the societies they depict, including the Augustan context for Virgil.

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    Homer's Iliad (option: study this OR Homer's Odyssey)

    The World of the Hero (H408/11) is a compulsory component focusing on the study of Greek and Roman epic poetry in translation. It requires an in-depth study of either Homer's Iliad or Odyssey, and Virgil's Aeneid. The component explores the composition of epic, the heroic world, characterisation, themes, and the social, cultural, and religious contexts of the societies depicted, as well as the Augustan political context for Virgil.

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    Literary techniques and composition

    This topic covers the literary techniques and composition of Homer's Iliad, focusing on the oral tradition, transmission of the text, the question of authorship, and the specific narrative and descriptive techniques used to shape the epic.

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    The heroic world: characterisation and themes

    This topic explores the heroic world through the characterisation and themes of Homer's Iliad, focusing on the nature of the hero, the portrayal of war, death, and the complex relationships between mortals and immortals, as well as the social and religious context of the epic.

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    The social, cultural and religious context

    This topic explores the social, cultural, and religious values of the Homeric world as depicted in the Iliad and the Odyssey, focusing on family, friendship, hospitality (xenia), gender roles, and the position of slaves.

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    Homer's Odyssey (option: study this OR Homer's Iliad)

    The World of the Hero (H408/11) is a compulsory component focusing on the study of epic literature in translation. It requires an in-depth study of one of Homer's epics (either the Iliad or the Odyssey) and Virgil's Aeneid. The component explores the composition, structure, and themes of these epics, as well as the religious, cultural, and social values of the societies they depict, including the concept of the hero, the role of the gods, and the historical/political context of the works.

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    Virgil's Aeneid (compulsory)

    The World of the Hero (H408/11) is a compulsory component focusing on the study of epic literature in translation. It requires an in-depth study of one of Homer’s epics (Iliad or Odyssey) and Virgil’s Aeneid. The component explores the composition, structure, and themes of these epics, as well as the religious, cultural, and social values of the societies they depict, including the Augustan context for Virgil.

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    Historical and political background

    This topic explores the historical and political context of Virgil's Aeneid, specifically focusing on the rise of Augustus, his consolidation of power, Virgil's relationship with the Augustan regime, and the promotion of the Roman Empire within the epic.

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    Greek Theatre (Component)

    This component explores the drama of the ancient Greek theatre, focusing on the context of production, the physical theatre space, and an in-depth study of three plays: Sophocles' Oedipus the King, Euripides' Bacchae, and Aristophanes' Frogs.

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    Drama and the theatre in ancient Athenian society

    This component explores the role and significance of drama and theatre in ancient Athenian society, covering the religious context of dramatic festivals, the organisation of the City Dionysia, the development of the theatre space, and the nature of tragedy and comedy. It includes an in-depth study of three prescribed plays: Sophocles' Oedipus the King, Euripides' Bacchae, and Aristophanes' Frogs, alongside a range of visual and material sources depicting theatrical performance.

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    Nature of tragedy

    The Greek Theatre component explores the origins, development, and production of ancient Greek drama, focusing on the physical theatre space, the religious context of the City Dionysia, and the study of three specific plays: Sophocles' Oedipus the King, Euripides' Bacchae, and Aristophanes' Frogs.

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    Nature of (old) comedy

    This topic explores the nature of Old Comedy in 5th century BC Athens, focusing on its development, theatrical conventions, and the role of the playwright Aristophanes. It examines the use of masks, costumes, and props, as well as comic techniques, themes, and the relationship between the plays and their cultural context.

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    Literary techniques, structure, and dramatic conventions

    This topic covers the literary techniques, structure, and dramatic conventions used in the prescribed Greek plays (Oedipus the King, Bacchae, and Frogs). It focuses on how playwrights shape meaning, the use of specific dramatic devices, characterisation, and the application of these techniques within the cultural and religious context of 5th-century BC Athens.

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    Social, political and religious themes in tragedy

    This component explores the role and significance of drama and theatre in ancient Athenian society, focusing on the religious context of dramatic festivals, the physical theatre space, and the development of tragedy and comedy. It includes an in-depth study of three plays (Sophocles' Oedipus the King, Euripides' Bacchae, and Aristophanes' Frogs) and a range of visual/material sources depicting theatrical scenes.

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    Social, political and religious themes in comedy

    This component explores the social, political, and religious themes in Greek comedy, focusing on the origins and nature of Old Comedy, the role of the theatre in Athenian society, and the specific study of Aristophanes' 'Frogs' alongside Sophocles' 'Oedipus the King' and Euripides' 'Bacchae'.

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    Imperial Image (Component)

    This component explores the political propaganda and self-presentation of Augustus Caesar, examining how he transformed Rome from an anti-monarchical republic into a system of one-man rule. It utilizes a mix of literary and visual/material sources to analyze his 'personal brand' and its reception across different social classes.

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    Divi filius

    This component explores the political propaganda and self-presentation of Augustus Caesar, examining how he transformed Rome from an anti-monarchical republic into an empire under one-man rule. It utilizes both literary and visual/material sources to analyze his 'personal brand' and the methods used to influence public opinion across different social classes.

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    Imperator

    This component explores the political propaganda and self-presentation of Augustus Caesar, examining how he transformed Rome from an anti-monarchical republic into an empire under one-man rule. It utilizes both literary and visual/material sources to analyze his 'personal brand' and its effectiveness across different social classes.

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    'Augustus'

    This component explores the political propaganda and self-presentation of Augustus Caesar, examining how he transformed a society from anti-monarchical republicanism to accepting one-man rule. It utilizes both literary and visual/material sources to analyze his 'personal brand' and the effectiveness of his image-making across different social classes.

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    Culture hero

    This component explores the political propaganda and self-presentation of Augustus Caesar, examining how he transformed Rome from an anti-monarchical republic into an empire under one-man rule. It utilizes both literary and visual/material sources to analyze his 'personal brand' and the methods used to convey it to different social classes.

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    Pater Patriae

    This component explores the political propaganda and self-presentation of Augustus Caesar, examining how he transformed Rome from a republic into an empire. It focuses on his use of literature and visual/material culture to establish his image as a leader, religious figure, and 'father' of the state, while navigating the legacy of Julius Caesar.

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    Later representations

    This component explores the propaganda and self-presentation of Augustus Caesar, examining how he transformed Rome from an anti-monarchical republic into an empire under one-man rule. It utilizes both literary and visual/material sources to analyze how Augustus conveyed his personal brand, established his authority, and created an imperial image that endured beyond his lifetime.

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    Invention of the Barbarian (Component)

    This component explores how the ancient Greeks constructed their identity in contrast to their 'barbarian' neighbours. It examines the historical context of the Persian Wars, the development of the 'barbarian' stereotype, and the portrayal of Persians and other 'others' in Greek literature and art, including the Amazons and Medea.

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    Greek identity

    This component explores how the ancient Greeks defined themselves in contrast to their 'barbarian' neighbours, examining the development of Greek identity, the impact of the Persian Wars, and the portrayal of 'others' in literature and art.

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    The Persian Wars and Greek (dis)unity

    This component explores the Greek perception of themselves as distinct from their 'barbarian' neighbours, focusing on the Persian Wars, the concept of the 'barbarian' in Greek thought, and the portrayal of Persians in literature and art. It examines the extent of Greek unity, the invention of the barbarian as a binary opposite, and the cultural and political interactions between Greeks and Persians.

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    Greeks and barbarians

    This component explores how the ancient Greeks defined themselves in contrast to their 'barbarian' neighbours. It examines the development of Greek identity, the impact of the Persian Wars on Greek unity, the emergence of stereotypes, and the portrayal of Persians and other 'others' in literature and art. Key focus areas include the historical context of the Persian Wars, the depiction of Persians in Herodotus and Aeschylus, the role of gender in barbarian characterisation (specifically Amazons and Medea), and the reality of Achaemenid Persian culture versus the Greek perception.

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    Depictions and portrayals; mythical barbarians

    This component explores how the ancient Greeks defined themselves in contrast to their 'barbarian' neighbours. It covers the geographical and cultural extent of the Greek world, the impact of the Persian Wars on Greek identity, the development of the 'barbarian' stereotype, and specific literary and artistic depictions of Persians, Amazons, and Medea.

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    Depictions and portrayals; historical barbarians

    This component explores the Greek construction of identity through the lens of the 'barbarian' other. It examines the historical, social, and cultural factors that led to the development of the barbarian stereotype, particularly following the Persian Wars. The study integrates literary and visual/material sources to analyze how the Greeks defined themselves in opposition to foreign cultures, with a specific focus on the Persians, Amazons, and the character of Medea.

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    The reality of Persia

    This component explores the Greek construction of 'barbarian' identity in contrast to their own, focusing on the Persian Wars, the role of binary oppositions, and the portrayal of Persians in literature and art. It examines the historical reality of the Achaemenid Empire versus the Greek perception, including the influence of gender and 'otherness' in these depictions.

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    Greek Art (Component)

    This component provides a thorough study of Greek art from the 6th to 4th centuries BC, focusing on free-standing sculpture, architectural sculpture, and vase-painting. It explores the development of artistic techniques, stylistic features, and the social, religious, and political contexts in which these works were created, while honing visual and analytical skills.

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    Function

    This component provides a thorough knowledge of selected aspects of Greek art from the 6th–4th centuries BC, including free-standing sculpture, architectural sculpture, and vase-painting. It explores the context of creation, including religion, society, values, and history/politics, while developing visual and analytical skills to articulate informed personal responses.

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    Materials

    This component provides a thorough knowledge of selected aspects of Greek art from the 6th–4th centuries BC, exploring the context of its creation, including religion, society, values, and history/politics. It focuses on developing visual and analytical skills, enabling students to evaluate the impact of Greek art on later periods and articulate informed personal responses.

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    Techniques

    This component provides a thorough knowledge of selected aspects of Greek art from the 6th to 4th centuries BC, including free-standing sculpture, architectural sculpture, and vase-painting. It explores the context of creation, including religion, society, values, and history/politics, while developing visual and analytical skills to articulate informed personal responses.

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    Stylistic features and development

    This component provides a thorough study of selected aspects of Greek art from the 6th to 4th centuries BC, exploring the development of sculpture and vase-painting alongside their religious, social, and political contexts. It focuses on the stylistic evolution of artistic techniques, the functions of art, and the influence of Greek art on later periods.

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    Composition

    This component focuses on the 6th–4th centuries BC, a period of significant change in the Greek world reflected in its artistic production. Learners gain a thorough knowledge of selected aspects of Greek art, including free-standing sculpture, architectural sculpture, and vase-painting, while understanding the religious, social, political, and historical contexts of their creation. The component aims to develop visual and analytical skills, critical evaluation, and the ability to articulate informed personal responses to the works.

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    Subject matter

    This component provides a thorough knowledge of selected aspects of Greek art from the 6th–4th centuries BC, while developing an understanding of the religious, social, political, and historical contexts in which the art was created. It focuses on free-standing sculpture, architectural sculpture, and vase-painting, honing visual and analytical skills to enable critical evaluation and informed personal responses.

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    Greek Religion (Component)

    Greek Religion (H408/31) explores the central role of religion in ancient Greek identity, daily life, and politics. It covers the nature of the Olympian gods, hero cults, mystery cults, and the practicalities of religious ritual, including sacrifice and the role of priests. The component also examines the relationship between religion and the polis, the significance of major religious sites (Acropolis, Delphi, Olympia), and the tensions between traditional religious practices and the rise of philosophical thought, particularly regarding the nature of the gods and the trial of Socrates.

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    The nature of the Olympian gods

    This component explores the nature of the Olympian gods in Greek religion, focusing on their anthropomorphic nature, their relationship with mortals, and the practicalities of religious life in the Greek world. It examines the role of gods in daily life, politics, and identity, alongside the significance of hero cults, mystery cults, and the rise of philosophical critiques of traditional religion.

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    Personal experience of the divine

    This component explores the central role of religion in ancient Greek life, examining the nature of the Olympian gods, the practicalities of religious ritual, and the relationship between the divine and the mortal. It covers the significance of Panhellenic and local religious practices, the role of mystery cults, the healing cult of Asclepius, and the intersection of religion with politics, philosophy, and society.

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    Religion and society

    This component explores the central role of religion in ancient Greek identity, daily life, and politics. It examines the nature of the Olympian gods, the practicalities of religious ritual, the function of major temple complexes, and the relationship between religion, philosophy, and society.

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    Places of worship

    This component explores the central role of religion in ancient Greek life, examining the nature of the gods, the practicalities of ritual, and the function of major religious sites. It covers the relationship between mortals and immortals, the role of mystery cults, the impact of philosophical thought on traditional beliefs, and the integration of religion into the household, city, and Panhellenic identity.

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    Rituals and priests

    This component explores the essential role of religion in ancient Greek identity, covering the practicalities of ritual, the function of temple complexes, the nature of the gods, and the relationship between religion, society, and philosophy.

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    Religion and philosophy

    This component explores the essential role of religion in ancient Greek identity, covering the nature of the Olympian gods, the practicalities of religious ritual, the function of temple complexes, and the relationship between religion, society, and philosophy.

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    Love and Relationships (Component)

    This component explores ancient ideas about love, desire, sex, sexuality, and marriage through a combination of classical thought and literature. It examines the ethical and social frameworks of the Greek and Roman worlds, contrasting societal norms with the perspectives of key thinkers and poets.

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    Men and women

    This component explores ancient Greek and Roman ideas about love, desire, sex, sexuality, and marriage. It combines the study of classical thought (Plato and Seneca) with the study of literature (Sappho and Ovid) to examine ethical questions and the reality of relationships in the ancient world.

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    Plato on love and desire

    This component explores ancient Greek and Roman ideas about love, desire, sex, sexuality, and marriage. It combines the study of classical thought (Plato and Seneca) with the study of literature (Sappho and Ovid) to examine ethical questions and the reality of relationships in the ancient world.

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    Seneca on love and desire

    This component explores ancient ethical and philosophical perspectives on love, desire, and relationships, contrasting Greek and Roman societal norms with the specific philosophical teachings of Seneca and Plato, alongside the literary representations of love in the poetry of Sappho and Ovid.

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    Sappho

    This component explores ideas about love, desire, sex, sexuality, and marriage in the ancient world. It combines the study of classical thought (Plato and Seneca) with the study of literature (Sappho and Ovid). It examines the ethical questions raised by these ideas and compares the representation of love and relationships in poetry with the philosophical and societal views of the time.

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    Ovid

    This component explores the concept of love and relationships in the ancient world, examining ethical questions, social norms, and the representation of desire in literature. It covers Greek and Roman societal attitudes towards men, women, and marriage, alongside the philosophical perspectives of Plato and Seneca, and the poetry of Sappho and Ovid.

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    Love and relationships in poetry

    This component explores ideas about love, desire, sex, sexuality, and marriage in the ancient world. It combines the study of classical thought (Plato and Seneca) with the study of poetry (Sappho and Ovid) to examine ethical questions and the reality of relationships in Greek and Roman society.

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    Politics of the Late Republic (Component)

    This component explores the political history and thought of the Late Roman Republic from 79 BC to 43 BC. It focuses on the decline of the Republican res publica and the rise of the Roman Emperors through the study of three key political figures: Cato the Younger, Julius Caesar, and Cicero. The course examines their political beliefs, conduct, and impact, alongside an in-depth study of Cicero's Verrine speeches and selected letters.

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    The background of the late Republic

    This component explores the political, social, and structural evolution of the Roman Republic from 79 BC to 43 BC. It focuses on the political thought and actions of three key figures—Cato the Younger, Julius Caesar, and Cicero—and examines the collapse of the Republican system through the lens of their conflicting ideologies and the practical realities of Roman governance.

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    Cato and the politics of the optimates

    This component explores the political landscape of the Late Roman Republic (79 BC–43 BC) through the study of three key figures: Marcus Porcius Cato (Cato the Younger), Gaius Julius Caesar, and Marcus Tullius Cicero. It examines the collapse of the Republican system, the conflict between the optimates and populares, and the practicalities of Roman governance, including the cursus honorum, patronage, and the role of the Senate.

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    Caesar as popularis and dictator

    This topic explores the political landscape of the Late Roman Republic (79 BC to 43 BC), focusing on the rise of Caesar as a popularis and dictator, the political ideals of Cato the Younger and Cicero, and the eventual collapse of the Republican system.

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    Cicero and the res publica

    This component explores the political thought and history of the Late Roman Republic from 79 BC to 43 BC, focusing on the careers and ideas of Cato the Younger, Julius Caesar, and Cicero. It examines the breakdown of the Republican res publica and the transition to one-man rule, alongside a detailed study of Cicero's oratorical style and correspondence.

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    Cicero as orator: In Verrem 1

    This component explores the political landscape of the Late Roman Republic (79–43 BC) through the study of three key figures: Cato the Younger, Julius Caesar, and Cicero. It examines the collapse of the Republican system, the rise of one-man rule, and the political thought of the era. The study includes an in-depth analysis of Cicero's first speech against Verres and a selection of his letters, focusing on both political content and rhetorical style.

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    Cicero as correspondent: Selected Letters

    This component explores the political landscape of the Late Roman Republic (79–43 BC) through the political thought and actions of Cato the Younger, Julius Caesar, and Cicero. It examines the collapse of the Republican system, the role of political figures, and provides an in-depth study of Cicero’s oratorical style in 'In Verrem 1' and his personal correspondence.

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    Democracy and the Athenians (Component)

    This component explores the concept of democracy in ancient Athens, examining its origins, development, and the ways it was celebrated, idealised, and criticised. It focuses on the reforms of Solon and Cleisthenes, the 5th-century developments under Ephialtes and Pericles, and the role of democratic institutions, alongside critical perspectives from contemporary authors like Plato and Aristophanes.

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    Solon

    This topic focuses on the development of Athenian democracy, specifically examining the reforms of Solon and Cleisthenes, the 5th-century developments under Ephialtes and Pericles, and the critical reception of democracy by contemporary thinkers and dramatists.

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    Cleisthenes

    This component explores the development of Athenian democracy, focusing on the reforms of Solon and Cleisthenes, the organs of the democratic system, and the ways in which democracy was celebrated, idealised, and critiqued by contemporary sources, including tragic dramatists, historians, and comedians.

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    5th Century developments

    This component examines the concept of democracy in 5th century BC Athens, exploring its origins, development, and the ways it was celebrated, idealised, and critiqued by contemporary thinkers and dramatists.

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    Democracy idealised

    This component explores the concept of democracy in ancient Athens, examining its origins through the reforms of Solon and Cleisthenes, its practical operation in the 5th century BC, and how it was perceived, celebrated, and critiqued by contemporary writers and thinkers.

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    Democracy critiqued

    This component explores the concept of democracy in ancient Athens, examining its origins, development, and the various ways it was celebrated, idealised, and critiqued by ancient authors. It covers the reforms of Solon and Cleisthenes, the 5th-century developments under Ephialtes and Pericles, and the practical operation of democratic institutions, alongside critical perspectives from contemporary sources.

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    Democracy and comedy

    This component explores the development of Athenian democracy, examining the reforms of Solon and Cleisthenes, the practical operation of democratic institutions, and the critical reception of democracy by contemporary authors, including the satirical perspective of Aristophanes.

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    Classical Civilisation OCR A-Level Topics & Revision | MasteryMind