Classical Studies

Study begins in Year 1 by establishing a framework for classical studies. You are introduced to key events, figures, themes and concepts via a range of sources and methods. The year is a fascinating, multidisciplinary mix of history, literature, politics, mythology and religion, philosophy, archaeology, art and architecture.
In Year 2, you explore the nature of classical studies as a discipline and its changing assumptions, methods and definitions. As well as offering multidimensional insight into the culture, history, and politics of the Greek and Roman worlds, modules also provide opportunities to reflect on the impact of these worlds in later societies, right up to the present day. Topics may include the high point of Athenian democracy, the world of Alexander the Great, the Roman Republic and early Empire, and the construction of the classical past in modern museum collections.

In your final year, you will hone your research methods, write a dissertation, and undertake more specialised modules that focus on the areas of academic expertise of the teaching staff. Topics may include gender and sexuality in the classical world and its modern legacy, the Pax Romana, popular culture in the classical world, the Trojan War in the ancient imagination, and ancient approaches to death and ritual.
The course is designed with students’ academic, personal, and professional development and well-being in mind, and our sector-leading National Student Survey results are testament to the support we offer to our students. There is no classical languages requirement for our degree, and there is no expectation that you have studied Classical Civilisation or Ancient History at either GCSE or A Level. We are confident in the support we offer to students both new to and familiar with the subject.