Overview

The BA (Hons) Classical Literature and Civilisation explores the literature, ideas, cultures, and societies of the ancient Greek and Roman worlds. Students examine classical texts alongside their historical and cultural settings, developing an understanding of how ancient beliefs, values, institutions, and artistic traditions shaped the ancient world and influenced later cultures.

What You'll Learn

• Greek and Roman literature, including poetry, prose, and drama

• Ancient history, society, politics, and cultural practices

• Classical mythology, religion, philosophy, and intellectual life

• Ancient languages and approaches to studying classical texts

• Art, architecture, material culture, and visual representation

• Social structures, institutions, conflict, and everyday life

• Historical and cultural contexts surrounding classical works

• Methods for interpreting literary, historical, and material evidence

• The reception and continuing influence of classical ideas and traditions

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to demonstrate informed knowledge of important aspects of Greek and Roman literature and civilisation. They will be able to analyse classical texts critically, considering language, form, authorship, historical setting, and cultural context. Students will understand how literary works relate to wider political, social, religious, and intellectual developments and will be able to assess different interpretations of ancient evidence. They will develop research skills that allow them to investigate classical questions independently, compare sources, and construct clear arguments supported by appropriate evidence. The course will also enable students to recognise how classical literature and civilisation have been transmitted, interpreted, adapted, and debated over time, while communicating their own analyses with clarity and critical awareness.