The Classical World has bequeathed to us an ineffably rich legacy. Far more than just the learning of ancient vocabulary, grammar, and syntax, the study of Classics at New Hall offers its students the chance to immerse themselves in the history, culture, art, literature, philosophy, politics, and, indeed, languages that have so shaped and influenced our own, and which have held our fascination for centuries. During their time at New Hall, students have the opportunity to study both Latin and Classical Greek ab initio, all the way up to Oxbridge entrance level.

Classical Greek

The opportunity to study Greek is rare and invaluable. A beautiful language, capable of expressing the most mellifluous verse and prose, its study also encourages in its students the critical acumen, thoughtfulness, and precision in speech and writing prized in our modern world. The ancient Greeks were amongst the first and most important historians, philosophers, and mathematicians, while the poetry of Homer and the tragedies of Sophocles and Euripides remain the most powerful and touching literature ever composed. The learning of Classical Greek complements the study of Latin, modern languages, Theology, English, History, and Drama. This subject should normally be selected as a fourth GCSE option, in place of an Academic Project.

Course Details

OCR Classical Greek J292

Language: Students will develop their knowledge of Greek vocabulary and linguistic structures through reading and studying texts and stories in Greek. They will then demonstrate their linguistic competence through the translation and comprehension of unseen Greek passages.

Literature: Students will read extracts of Greek texts and answer questions in English on the passages they have studied and prepared in lessons. Amongst others, literature selections have previously included Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey, Herodotus, Plato, and the great tragedians Sophocles and Euripides.

Latin

Latin is a subject of unparalleled depth and interest, highly respected for its academic rigour, and prized by universities and employers. Students develop their logical and analytical thought, all the while honing their skills as clear, precise, and engaging communicators. Latin connects students to their historical, social and literary heritage, fostering a deeper
understanding of our own culture and society and encouraging discussion of universal issues raised by the literature such as life, death, love, war, and politics. Latin is the foundation of Romance languages such as French, Spanish and Italian, and is an invaluable support to other subjects such as Classical Greek, English, modern languages and Theology.

Course Details

OCR GCSE Latin J282
Language: Students will develop their knowledge of Latin vocabulary and linguistic structures through reading and studying texts and stories in Latin (a substantial proportion of grammatical content is covered by the end of Year 9). They will then demonstrate their linguistic competence through the translation and comprehension of unseen Latin passages.

Literature: Students are introduced to literature which has influenced the culture and writing of Europe and hence the rest of the world. They will read extracts of Latin texts and answer questions in English on the passages they have studied and prepared in lessons. Previous literature selections have included Virgil’s account of Dido’s doomed love affair, Pliny’s letters describing the eruption of Vesuvius, and the Druids’ customs such as human sacrifice.