BA Classics

Build your love for, and understanding of, the ancient world to new levels.

Classics is a language-based course. You will investigate the culture and history of ancient Greece and Rome by examining texts in their original language. Immerse yourself in ancient speeches, drama, epic, and satire in the original Greek or Latin, and explore how language and culture inform one another.

Reading ancient texts in their original Latin or Greek is one of the greatest pleasures of studying Greek and Roman culture. You can learn either language from scratch, or build on your existing knowledge.

Studying Latin and ancient Greek will give you greater insight into the texts you’re reading in translation. You can combine modules on the history, art, and culture of the ancient Mediterranean with detailed study of both Latin and Greek. Learning an ancient language also builds skills in linguistic analysis and literacy that are valued by employers.

Beginners' level – If you’re unsure whether to start with Latin or Greek, but are more interested in Roman history or Latin literature, go for Latin in your first year. If you’re more interested in Greek history or literature, choose Greek.

As a beginner of both languages, you will receive extensive language tuition in your first year, reaching an advanced level by year three. You will also begin the other language in your second year.

If you have A level Latin or ancient Greek – You will study both languages from year one.

Whatever your entry level, you will use your language skills to interpret ancient art, history, literature, mythology and drama. Ancient languages live on in the modern world: just see how the Nottingham LatinNow research team is exploring the role of Latin language and culture in the diversity of modern Europe.

For more information on what it's like to study with us, see the Department of Classics and Archaeology website.