Classics

The Classics Department at Bristol is internationally renowned and you can be assured of high-quality, exciting and up-to-the-minute teaching. A Bristol Classics degree focuses on Greek and Latin languages, and the literature and culture of the ancient world. You will have the opportunity to study many areas of Greco-Roman civilisation, including poetry and philosophy, history and politics, and visual arts. You will develop a variety of linguistic and literary skills that are transferable to a wide range of careers.

Classics courses

BA Classics (Q800)

Why study Classics at Bristol?

A Bristol Classics degree combines an emphasis on traditional language skills and historical knowledge with the exploration of today’s classical heritage. You will focus on Latin and Greek languages, gaining confidence in translating and the ability to appreciate the beauty of ancient poetry and prose. At the same time, you will not only learn about the background of ancient authors, you will also be challenged to ask how their texts have been appreciated in later times, and why they still deserve to be read today. Meanwhile, you will have the flexibility either to study core topics in ancient culture (eg Greek and Roman Drama) or to strike out into specialised topics that interest you (eg Ghosts, Death, and the Afterlife).

What kind of student would this course suit?

This course suits students who love the Latin and Greek languages and want to focus on reading ancient texts in the original. You should also enjoy talking about literature, history, and philosophy, and be eager to develop new skills for analysing them. Finally, you should be ready to study the influence of Greek and Roman antiquity upon modernity.

How is this course taught and assessed?

Teaching methods include lectures, large- and small-group seminars, guided translations, and personal consultations. These will allow you to develop valuable skills in conducting research, formal and informal writing, extemporaneous discussion and oral presentation. Assessment is primarily by essays, tests, and exams on both translation and literary interpretation.

What are my career prospects?

The skills in critical thinking, persuasive writing and self-expression provided by the interdisciplinary study of Classics are transferable to a wide range of careers. Graduates have found positions in research, administration, media, museums, art galleries, heritage management, the Civil Service, law, accountancy, computing, commerce and industry, as well as in teaching. A significant number of our graduates go on to further their studies in either Classics or other subjects.