Classical Civilisation: World of the Hero & Imperial Image Introduction (OCR A Level)

This KS5 lesson is designed for OCR A Level Classical Civilisation and serves as an introduction to the World of the Hero (Aeneid) and Imperial Image units. It provides students with an overview of the course before beginning the study of the text.

The lesson introduces the structure of the year, outlining the key books from the Aeneid that will be studied alongside the literary, historical, and visual sources explored in the Imperial Image unit. Students are also introduced to Augustus, considering his significance to both areas of the course and how the two modules complement one another.

Students are given the opportunity to explore the style of assessment by discussing past paper questions (not included in this resource), helping them understand the expectations of the course from the outset. The lesson concludes with a series of introductory tasks to familiarise students with the key ideas and themes they will encounter throughout the year.

For homework, students are asked to read Book 1 of the Aeneid in preparation for the next lesson.

This resource is suitable for Year 12 or Year 13 students beginning OCR A Level Classical Civilisation. It provides a clear introduction to the course while encouraging students to engage with the wider themes and expectations of the qualification from the very beginning.