International AS & A Level Classical Studies
Examination Board: Cambridge International
Qualification Levels: AS Level & A Level
Why Study This Course?
The Cambridge International AS & A Level in Classical Studies offers a fascinating exploration of Greek and Roman civilisations, helping students understand the foundations of Western culture, history, literature, philosophy, and political thought. It enables learners to critically analyse historical sources, literary texts, and archaeological evidence, fostering skills in interpretation, evaluation, and structured argumentation.
This course is ideal for students who:
- Are passionate about ancient history, literature, and philosophy.
- Enjoy examining primary sources and debating historical interpretations.
- Aspire to study Classics, History, Archaeology, Literature, or Philosophy at university.
- Are considering careers in law, academia, museum curation, publishing, and heritage management.
- Wish to gain a globally recognised qualification valued by universities and cultural institutions worldwide.
Who is This Course For?
This course is suitable for students who:
- Want to develop critical thinking, research, and analytical skills.
- Enjoy comparing ancient and modern societies.
- Aspire to work in education, historical research, cultural heritage, and media.
- Are interested in Greek and Roman myths, political systems, and artistic achievements.
This course fosters research, textual analysis, and historical evaluation, essential for higher education and careers in law, academia, and journalism.
1. Source Analysis and Interpretation
- Evaluating historical reliability and bias in literary, material, and archaeological sources.
- Understanding historical, social, and political contexts of the Classical world.
- Analysing Greek and Roman perspectives on leadership, society, and philosophy.
2. Critical Thinking and Theoretical Analysis
- Comparing different historical interpretations.
- Engaging with debates on democracy, empire, and mythological narratives.
- Applying literary and historical methodologies to ancient texts.
3. Research and Argumentation
- Constructing well-supported historical arguments.
- Writing structured essays with clear, evidence-based analysis.
- Engaging in comparative studies of ancient and modern political systems.
The course assesses students based on the following objectives:
| Objective | Description | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| AO1 | Demonstrate knowledge of Classical sources and contexts | 45% |
| AO2 | Analyse and evaluate sources to develop arguments | 55% |
Strong Preparation for University and Beyond
This course provides a solid foundation for degree-level study in Classics, Ancient History, Archaeology, and Political Science.
Recognition by Top Universities
The Cambridge International AS & A Level in Classical Studies is widely recognised by universities, employers, and research institutions worldwide.
Development of Research and Analytical Skills
Students develop historical research, textual analysis, and critical thinking skills, which are valuable in law, academia, publishing, and cultural heritage.
Engaging and Real-World Applications
The course covers politics, literature, philosophy, and art, ensuring students engage with timeless themes of power, leadership, and society.
Course Structure
The qualification consists of four externally assessed papers, divided into two levels:
Cambridge International AS Level (First Year)
Paper 1: Greek Civilisation (AS Level – 50%)
Exam Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Assessment Format: External written examination
Topics Covered (Choose One):
- Alexander the Great – His leadership, conquests, and legacy.
- Aristophanes – Analysis of Old Comedy and its socio-political themes.
- Themes in Greek Vase Painting – The art, myths, and daily life depicted in pottery.
Assessment Overview:
- Section A: Source-based questions.
- Section B: Essay questions on chosen topic.
Paper 2: Roman Civilisation (AS Level – 50%)
Exam Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Assessment Format: External written examination
Topics Covered (Choose One):
- Augustus – His rise to power, governance, and reforms.
- Virgil’s Aeneid – The epic poem’s themes, politics, and literary techniques.
- Architecture of the Roman City – Public and private buildings, engineering innovations.
Assessment Overview:
- Section A: Source-based questions.
- Section B: Essay questions on chosen topic.
Cambridge International A Level (Full Qualification)
Paper 3: Classical History (A Level – 25%)
Exam Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Assessment Format: External written examination
Topics Covered (Choose One):
- Athens and Sparta – Society, government, warfare, and alliances.
- Emperors and Subjects (Claudius, Nero, Domitian, Trajan) – Imperial rule and society.
Assessment Overview:
- Section A: Source-based questions.
- Section B: Thematic essay question.
Paper 4: Greek Literature (A Level – 25%)
Exam Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Assessment Format: External written examination
Topics Covered (Choose One):
- Greek Tragedy – Agamemnon (Aeschylus), Antigone (Sophocles), Medea and Electra (Euripides).
- Homeric Epic – Iliad and Odyssey: themes of heroism, fate, and divine intervention.
Assessment Overview:
- Section A: Analysis of an extract from set texts.
- Section B: Thematic essay question.
