Latin/Greek in classics at KCL

Hi I’ve just found out that I’m going to be doing classical studies at KCL which I’m very excited about but I would really like to avoid studying Latin/Greek.

I see that there’s specific language modules and then ancient history modules. So is studying Latin/Greek specific to the language modules or for example would I have to read tragedies in Latin/Greek in other modules too.

Would be greatly appreciated if anyone who’s done first year here could help me out☺️

Reply 1

Classics_Teacher

I am not sure specifically for KCL, but at most universities, if you don't have any prior knowledge of the languages, you can choose to take one or both in 1st year, and then the expectation would be that you would study part of your 2nd year modules in the original language. Given that you're doing Classical Studies, it sounds as if you could avoid them altogether if that's what you want to do.

Reply 2

artful_lounger

Universities Forum Helper

https://www.kcl.ac.uk/artshums/depts/classics/modules/level4/4aacah01.aspx

Seeing as it's available to students outside the department, I imagine the core reading will be in English. However, for Classics students (which you wouldn't be, incidentally) or those who take Classical languages at a certain level alongside (which includes the former set and possibly you) there may be additional work on using the original sources.

However on this page: https://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/classical-studies-ba.aspx: "There are no required modules for year 1", and from the handbook on the department website:

"

•

120 credits of Level 4 Classics modules OR 105 credits of Level 4 Classics modules plus 15 credits from another Department in the Faculty of Arts & Humanities or the Department of War Studies. The Classics modules may include 30 credits of Greek or Latin language acquisition.

"

emphasis mine, suggests that you're not required to take any language work unless you so choose (although it would probably be useful/required if you wanted to continue to masters or PhD level).

From the departmental module pages you can look at individual module information, which may include specific statements which answer your question. For example, it seems "Working with Greek & Latin Literary Texts: An Introduction" does assume prior language work, and probably concurrent language work. However the other literature module specifically states it is taught using English translations and assumes no knowledge of the classical languages.

Either way, given the considerable latitude you have in choosing modules in this programme, I assume your personal tutor should be able to help advise you both on which include language work and on which modules might be most relevant to your interests beyond avoiding that. Also it's usually possible to change modules within the first couple weeks of term, if necessary.

Quick Reply

Related discussions

Latest

Trending

Articles for you

Which university admissions tests do you need to take?

How The Student Room is moderated

To keep The Student Room safe for everyone, we moderate posts that are added to the site.

Try out the app

Continue on web