Before you study Classical Literature and Civilisation - what to know

You don’t need to have studied classics before

I came to university with no experience studying classics or any ancient languages (or even history, which I dropped in Year 9). I was so apprehensive that this would put me behind my peers and leave me to constantly play catch up. Contrary to my fears, I quickly took to the course and had no problems understanding the material.

I studied English Literature, Media, and Film at A-Level, and the transferrable skills and essay writing practice that I gained from these subjects were the most helpful thing in my transition to university study. I never had anything to worry about – even the students who had studied classics before were engaging in new ways and with new texts. We all learned together, regardless of our (lack of) previous experience.

You will encounter a wide range of disciplines

Despite its name, Classical Literature and Civilisation isn’t just about literature. You can also include language, history, archaeology, reception and more in your studies. I didn’t know what classical reception was until I came to the University of Birmingham, and now it is my favourite subject. (Classical reception is the study of how the classical world is received and represented by the modern world, for those wondering).

The course doesn’t only cover Greece and Rome either – the influence of classics spread to parts of Europe, Africa, and Asia, and so the course discusses these regions too. There are sometimes even modules offered on Egyptology for interested students.

It is because of this wide range of disciplines covered in the course that you can tailor your study experience to your own interests and strengths. For example, I am currently incorporating my love of theatre into my studies through my dissertation, which I am writing on the depiction of classical mythology in modern theatre (such as Hadestown).

Everyone is just as much of a nerd as you are

Before university, I was the only person in my social circle who heard “Homer” and thought of the Iliad rather than The Simpsons. Now, I am surrounded by equally passionate individuals (whether they are likeminded or they passionately disagree) in my lectures, seminars, and in the Birmingham Ancient History, Classics, and Archaeology Society (BACAS). That's the student society concerned with all things classics, one of the 300+ societies offered by the Guild of Students.

Even the lecturers are nerds, and are enthusiastic to share their passion with students - be it in lectures, office hours, or in specialist talks throughout the semester. I recently attended one such lecture organised by BACAS and delivered by Dr Leire Olabarria (a lecturer here at Birmingham!) on the reception of Ancient Egypt in heavy metal music, and it was amazing to engage with her research and interests outside regular study. That’s my favourite part of studying Classical Literature and Civilisation here; being surrounded by people who love the subject just as much as I do.