BA Classics
The cultures of Greece and Rome lie at the heart of Western civilisation, and resonate throughout the world. Whether you already have some familiarity with the ancient world or not, we welcome you to study the fascinating history, literature, culture and art of two societies that have done much to shape our own. The Department of Classics provides a range of stimulating and challenging courses for students from a wide variety of backgrounds, and we regularly update our provision to embrace new approaches to the ancient world.
What is Classics?
This degree aims to develop a reading knowledge of the two classical languages, Ancient Greek and Latin, through a broad range of genres and authors: epic, lyric, drama, satire, biography, history, oratory and philosophy. Students find the challenge of learning the languages exciting, and understanding them opens a route into the minds of the Greeks and Romans.
What will you study?
Year 1
Compulsory modules
Latin
Ancient Greek
Optional modules
Fifth century Athens
Augustan Rome
Text and object
Options from other departments
Year 2
Compulsory modules
Latin
Ancient Greek
Optional modules
Four from a list typically including:
Egypt and Greece
Greek sculpture
Greek religion
Ancient persuasion
Ancient drama
Roman epic
Final year
Compulsory modules
Dissertation
Latin
Ancient Greek
Optional modules
Two from a list including:
Ancient biography
Receptions of Homer
Ancient technology
Ancient painting
Classics and critical theory
Joint honours students take two out of three of the compulsory modules listed in Year 2, and normally two of the options listed in Year 3.