Year 9 Classical Civilisation Students Step into the Ancient World at the Fitzwilliam Museum

In March, 13 Classical Civilisation students from Year 9 enjoyed a trip to the Fitzwilliam Museum. They spent two hours exploring the Greece and Rome gallery and interacting with the very same artefacts they had studied in lessons.

The students explored many civilisations, including the Cyclades and Minoans, the Ancient Athenians and the Etruscans, and finally Rome and her wider empire. Students were encouraged to observe the links between different civilisations and to understand how connected the ancient world was through trade. They were amazed to learn that more Greek vases have been found in Italy, in the tombs of the Etruscans, than in Greece itself!

The Roman section of the museum sparked thoughtful discussions on how symbolism in currency is an effective way to maintain power over a vast geographical area, which students were able to successfully compare to modern political powers, like the European Union's use of the Euro. They also considered the idea of legacy and reflected on why Romans chose to present themselves in particular ways in their portraits, whether that was to emphasise youth and beauty, or to establish the legitimate rule of emperors in the line of succession.

They also discussed the ethics of museums, which has been a controversial topic recently. Drawing on knowledge they gathered in the museum, students are going to prepare class debates on whether museums should, or should not, return artefacts to their original countries.

Ultimately, the students all enjoyed the vivid hands-on experience, seeing the objects as windows into the civilisations they have been studying so far this term, and were enthusiastic at discussing the cultural and historical significance of the artefacts on display.