Year one course content
Two units are studied in first year. Firstly, the ‘World of the Hero’ unit comprises an in-depth study of Homer’s Odyssey.
This unit uses literature in its English translation, though students will have the opportunity to engage meaningfully with the ancient Greek language. This will involve book reviews, literary analysis, language analysis, social and historical context studies, and students will gain an extensive understanding of ancient Greek mythology and traditions.
The second unit in year one is ‘Imperial Image’. This study of ancient Rome involves a thorough investigation of the Roman leader Augustus’ life and rule over the empire. This includes a study of Roman archaeology, architecture, politics, religion, art and social culture.
Year two course content
Year two begins with a continuation of the ‘World of the Hero’ component, this time focussing on the Roman epic, Virgil’s Aeneid. As in year one, this work is studied in translation, though students will have the opportunity to engage with the Latin language in which it was originally composed. This will involve book reviews, literary analysis, language analysis, social and historical context studies, and students will be able to utilise the knowledge gained from the year one Imperial Image module.
The second unit studied in year two is ‘Greek Religion’. Within this unit students will gain a detailed understanding of Greek mythology, philosophy, social and religious structures, rituals, festivals, cults and mysteries. This will involve and investigation into ancient literature and material/visual culture. Students will be able to connect the study of Greek Religion to their understanding of Homer’s Odyssey from year one.
