Classics

I believe that a degree in Classics is ideally suited to me because of

the diversity of disciplines it incorporates and the depth which it is
possible to achieve. My keenness to enhance my linguistic skills and my
understanding of other cultures values and thought have grown
significantly over the past few years as my abilities have developed.
Through studying Latin and Classical Civilisation, I have gained
enthusiasm not just for the Classical past but also its repercussions
in later literature, philosophy and language across Europe. In reading
later works, the influence of Classical texts on subject matter and
form is evident, and my knowledge of such themes makes them all the
more satisfying to read.
What has been particularly interesting to me so far is the influence of
Classics on later writers and artists, such as Albert Camus whom I
studied for my French AS oral exam, Margaret Atwoods Penelopiad, the
inspiration of Debussys Six pigraphes Antiques from the writings of
Lous and the recent renaissance of Classical themes in popular
culture, like the film Gladiator. Another area that fascinates me is
the political stage during the fall of the Roman republic. After
studying this period for AS Classical Civilisation, I decided to
undertake a research project focussed on the speeches of Cicero and
comparing them to the wartime speeches of Churchill, which has proven
to be an enthralling endeavour. Churchill, educated during a period
where Classical education was abundant, reflects many linguistic
devices and oratorical similarities to those of Cicero, despite the
great chronological and cultural differences. In this way, it is ideal
to look at aspects of human nature and culture as they have been
preserved in the past.
Having taken AS Latin ab initio, I also attended the JACT Classics
summer school in Durham, where I spent a week learning Ancient Greek
and attending some brilliant lectures on such themes as Baiae and Greek
helmet design. I have also taken advantage of resources at Cambridge
Universitys classical library and seen several plays in local theatres
in Greek and in English, including Oedipus the King, Medea, the Iliad
and an adaptation of the Odyssey, which I very much enjoyed. I find
reading and seeing different interpretations of classical texts almost
as rewarding as the texts themselves.
It is partly French A-Level, as well as involving myself in my
colleges Africa Link, that has developed my awareness and support of
cultural and social diversity, and from this has stemmed my fascination
for languages. Taking part in numerous exchanges and my villages
twinning have given me opportunity to experience the French way of
life, philosophy and cultural identity, which have been greatly
influenced by classical themes and ideals. Maths A-level has taught me
analytical skills from a non-literary angle and the logical thought
prized by Socratic philosophers and in AS English language I developed
an interest in historical linguistics which my knowledge of French and
Latin helped me with greatly. Maths and English Language have
complemented my Classical studies by bringing organization and
structure to my methods of working.
As co-chair of my colleges Classics Society and member of the Greek
club, I contribute whole-heartedly to the classical life of the school.
I was also elected treasurer of the Student Council, which organizes
college balls, student grants and charities events, requiring great
organizational, managerial and, in particular, communicative skills.
Musically, I enjoy playing the piano, the euphonium in the National
Youth Brass Band of Great Britain and trombone in my college symphony
orchestra.