Classical Civilisation, BA (Hons)

Course summary

Take a journey through the ancient world.You may have come to love ancient Greece and Rome through myths and legends, books, films or museums. Now discover more, examining the political and social structures, art and visual culture, thought, religion and social life. Learn in depth about the cultural interactions of the period through the magnificent visual and material remains.You do not need any academic experience of classical civilisations. Our core modules provide an introduction to the history and culture of the ancient Mediterranean, as well as its afterlife in later culture, politics, and thought. As you progress through the course you will encounter further topics and methods, each developing different skills in analysing ancient literature, history, or material culture.You will read texts in translation, but you can also try out Latin or Greek and see if it's for you. Studying Latin or Greek will give you greater insight into the language and nuances of texts you’re reading in translation. It also provides skills in linguistic analysis that are valued by employers.

Our first-year core modules are designed as an introduction. This means that even if you haven’t studied classical civilisation before, we’ll build everyone's knowledge to the same level, so you can progress through to year two. In year one, your core modules will focus on thinking about the nature of ancient history as a discipline and developing the skills required for researching, writing and debating. You can also choose from a range of optional modules; these may be in classical civilisation, or in other subjects such as archaeology or history of art. In year two, you will take the core 'Extended Source Study' module. Optional modules include topics in Greek and Roman history and civilisation, and the opportunity to continue or start learning Greek or Latin. In year three, you will take a minimum of two 'Special Subject/Dissertation' modules but may take three. Remaining credits will come from optional modules including the opportunity to continue or start learning Greek or Latin.