Level 3 Classical Studies
13CLS Course DescriptionTeacher in Charge: Mr N. Crotty.
Entry CriteriaThis course is open entry for all students. Level 3 Classics is an open entry course.
It is recommended that students have an interest in either History or English, Law or Philosophy, debate or current affairs, society or culture.
Students must also meet the requirements to study a Level 3 NCEA Award.
Level 3 Classical Studies
Classical Studies is about the ancient Greeks and Romans, who are the origins of Western modern culture and are worth studying for their own interest and insights. 13 Classics focuses on the Romans, beginning with the nature of Greek compared to Roman Myths and Religion; an overview of Roman daily life and history; the literary ideas in the epic Aeneid written by Virgil; the life, conquests and politics of one of the Caesars, such as Augustus; and, propaganda in the art and architecture of the Roman Emperors - including larger than life Caligula, Nero, the Flavians, Hadrian, Commodus and Constantine. Classics is a multidisciplinary subject combining history, literature, philosophy, art - dependent on student interests - and can be picked up for the first time at Y13.
Course Overview
Term 1
INTRODUCTION TO ANCIENT GREECE AND ROME
A brief overview of Greek and particularly Roman history and culture, including religion, legends, society, leaders and events.
AUGUSTUS CAESAR
.
Using ancient evidence we explore viewpoints and analyse the career of the Roman Emperor Augustus Caesar; including his accession or rise to power, military conquests, his relations (with citizens, allies, + subject peoples), his religious views, socio-political influences upon him and his impact on the classical world. Augustus was born into a Roman dominated Mediterranean beset by dysfunctional Roman politicking and civil wars, and left a legacy of peace, law and order whose "pax Romana" (Roman Peace) lasted centuries. He is one of the most influential leaders of all time, often admired as a model - although he could be ruthless.
Term 2
The propaganda in the ART & ARCHITECTURE of the ROMAN EMPIRE
An in class overview of selected sculpture (including portraits & historical reliefs) and public architecture of the Roman Empire from the colourful reigns of the Emperors such as Augustus, Caligula, Nero, Hadrian, Caracalla to Constantine with particular reference to their purpose and political meanings. It is a tour of the might and grandeur of Roma. Independent research on “The Messages of Empire” for 3.4, is followed by an investigation of “Architecture Everlasting – Rome Forever” for 3.5, in which you will analyse & interpret (use) evidence to reach & justify perceptive conclusions about how Rome became a model for latter empires, such as Napoleonic France, Nazi Fascism, America.
Term 3
VIRGIL’S AENEID
We read and discuss Virgil’s epic story of The Aeneid and consider its religious-social-historical-political background, with particular reference to Books 1, 2, 4, 6 and 12, including the structure, plot and characters of the poem, literary conventions, the function of the gods, and the theme of Rome’s world mission. Virgil is considered the greatest Latin (Roman) writer and one of the handful of most influential poets of all time. He was a supporter of the Emperor Augustus, but seems to have used his writing to warn the ruler to rule wisely for the benefit of others, and not to become a cruel tyrant. Through investigating the flawed hero Aeneas as depicted in the Aeneid we learn what the Romans expected in the ideal Roman man and leader (their manly virtues).
Term 4
REVISION and practice for the external examination.
Equipment/Stationery and Course Costs
This course makes significant use of digital learning material at various times during the year. It is advantageous for a student to have a laptop during these times. Some learning activities, including assessments, will not be able to be completed without a laptop.