In the first year you take compulsory core modules in Greek Culture and Society, and Roman Culture and Society. You choose between either Introduction to Greek and Roman History or Introduction to Ancient Philosophy, and either Latin or Ancient Greek at the appropriate level. Greek Culture and Society tracks major intellectual and cultural developments, moving from the worlds represented in Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey to the democratic contexts of fifth- and fourth-century Athens. The module traces the development of Greek art from its origins in the archaic period to the fifth century BC and impressive monuments such as the Parthenon in Athens. Roman Culture and Society explores what was distinctively ‘Roman’ about Rome, Italy, and the provinces during the imperial period. In subsequent years you may pursue such themes further. The second-year core module The Hellenistic World maps new political and cultural developments beyond Classical Greece, bridging the gap between Classical Athens and Imperial Rome. You may then choose your own path through the rest of the degree, through modules such as Alexander the Great, The Ancient World in Film and Popular Culture, Greek Tragedy, History of Medicine, Augustus, and your dissertation. You may also continue learning ancient languages. For module information please visit the Classics and Ancient History website. How will I be taught? You will study Classics in a variety of ways, through lectures and seminars, and, in your final year, through a dissertation on a topic of your own choice, with guidance from your departmental supervisor. All our degrees involve some compulsory modules in Year One; in subsequent years, you build on what you have learnt through a choice of modules which allow you to engage in your own way with the civilisation of the Ancient Mediterranean. How will I be assessed? You will take four modules each year, the assessment of which is equally divided between essays submitted during the year and exams in the summer (100% exam for language modules). Your second and third year contribute equally to your final degree classification. What opportunities are there to study abroad? See Classical Civilisation with Study in Europe in the prospectus for how to study the Ancient World with a year in Italy.

A degree in a Classical subject provides rich and versatile training, developing powers of expression and analysis. Our courses provide an excellent foundation for further academic study. The intellectual skills developed by our degrees prepare you for a diverse range of other careers, including law, finance, teaching and journalism.