Ancient History

Course summary

A Level of Ancient History is the study of Ancient Greek and Roman history. You will learn about some critical periods in the history of these civilisations that have done so much to shape the societies of Western Europe in terms of politics, philosophy, law, arts and language. Year 12 units: • Relations between Greek and non-Greek states, 492-404 BC (a study of the relationships and wars between Athens, Sparta and Persia) - 25% of A Level. • The Julio-Claudian emperors 31BC – AD 68 (a study of the first five Roman emperors, including some of the most notorious in Roman History: Augustus, Tiberius, Caligula, Claudius and Nero) - 25% of A Level. Students will study original authors in translation, e.g., Plutarch, Thucydides, Tacitus and Suetonius and critically analyse and evaluate them as evidence. Coins, artefacts and buildings are also used as evidence. Lessons will involve discussion, debate, presentations, source analysis, group work and use of multi-media materials. There will be an opportunity for all pupils to visit the impressive ancient collections of the British Museum in London. Ancient History is valued as an academic A-level by universities and it is an obvious choice if you want to study Archaeology, Classics, Ancient History or History at university. Also, if you are interested in law and politics, then this course will give you an excellent grounding in different political systems, the development of democracy and the exercise of power.