Ancient History

A subject not commonly offered by many school sixth-forms and colleges, Ancient History will provide you with a unique opportunity to learn about the history of ancient Greece in the fifth century BC, and late Republican Rome and the first emperors of Rome. You will investigate the writings of famous ancient historians such as Herodotus and Plutarch, and the careers of influential movers and shakers from classical Athens and Republican Rome including Themistocles, Pericles, Julius Caesar and Pompey Magnus. Topics include the Greek wars of the fifth century BC – The Persian War and the Peloponnesian War,  the political and culture of ancient Athenian society, a survey of the dramatic events that marked the fall of the Roman Republic, and the infamous Julio–Claudian emperors; Augustus, Tiberius, Gaius (Caligula), Claudius and Nero. 

This course will particularly appeal to students with a personal interest in classical history, and combines well with subjects including History, English Literature, Art and Classical Civilisation.

The Henley College is delighted to announce that the world-renowned classicist, Professor Mary Beard of Newnham College Cambridge, has agreed to lend her support to its Classics and Ancient History Department.

Acclaimed classicist, writer and broadcaster, Natalie Haynes, has agreed to be a Patron of our Classics and Ancient History department. With an extensive career spanning radio, television and journalism, Natalie is a regular contributor on Radio 4 appearing on shows such as Woman’s Hour, You and Yours and A Good Read. Natalie also presents her own show, Natalie Haynes Stands Up for the Classics, with the fourth series airing in 2018. Natalie's support will be a huge benefit to us and our students.

BEFORE YOU START

You may be required to complete an activity before you start in order to help introduce you to the subject. Check back in the summer term for more details.

YEAR 1

In the first year you will study two modules, focusing on 5^th Century BCE Greece. The first module is Relations between Greek States and Non-Greek States, c.492-404 BCE, this looks at the conflicts that erupted in th Greek world in the fifth-century, and sees the rise of Athens and Sparta as the two pre-eminent city-states. The second module is The Politics and Culture of Athens, c.460-499 BCE. This comprises of an in depth study of the city of Athens, looking at the politics, society, art, architecture, literature, philosophy, religion, and many other areas.

YEAR 2

In year two you will focus on Rome, studying two modules which take you through the history of Rome from 88 BCE-68 CE. The first module will be The Breakdown of the Late Republic, c.88-31 BCE, which examines how the Roman Republic collapsed over this time-period. It will focus on some of the most important and influential figures from Roman history, including Caesar, Pompey, Cicero, Sulla, and many more. The second module is the Julio-Claudians, 31 BCE-68 CE. This examines the first five emperors of Rome, who emerged in the aftermath of the fall of the Republic. You will look at how their reigns are characterised and presented in the sources, and how they change Rome throughout the years.

CAREERS

Ancient History as a subject is highly valued by both universities and employers, due to the knowledge and transferable skills it develops, ranging from analysis and comprehension to research and presentation skills.

HIGHER EDUCATION

This course provides a strong grounding for those wishing to pursue many other subject areas at degree level. In recent years students have gone on to various destinations including university places at  Durham, Queen Mary (London), Reading, Kent, Southampton, Exeter, Oxford Brookes, Royal Holloway, Manchester and Sussex to study subjects including History, English Literature and Classics.

Alternatively, students may consider direct entry into employment or further training.

Students are required to complete at least 30 hours of enrichement per academic year whilst studying at The Henley College, learn more about Enrichment here.

Learn more about our application process here.