Classics Summer School
From Antiquity to Brilliance: Classics Summer School 2025 — Explore Beyond The Syllabus
Embark on a scholarly summer with Minds Underground's Classics Summer School, offering Year 12 students an opportunity to delve into the rich world of Classics beyond the standard curriculum, guided by inspiring tutors from Oxford and Cambridge.
Spanning from July to August, our online Classics Summer School includes engaging 1.5-hour sessions every week, led by Oxbridge-educated classicists. Immerse yourself in the exploration, discussion, and critical analysis of key classical questions and debates that extend beyond typical classroom knowledge.
Enrolling in our Classics summer course will provide you with exposure to first year university level material and hone essential critical analysis skills, mastery of high level concepts and ideas, and the ability to engage in insightful discourse. Tailored for those preparing for top-tier UK university applications, such as Oxbridge, our tutors will guide you in articulating your reasoning and engaging in high level critical discussion ahead of potential university interviews.
Location: Online
Student Age: 15 - 18
Duration: 8 Weeks
Hours: 12 hours (Weekly 1.5hr session)
Dates: July - August
Why Join the Minds Underground Classics Summer School for Top UK & Oxbridge Classics Applicants?
Expand Your Knowledge of Classics Beyond the Syllabus
Discover a wealth of knowledge beyond textbooks, enriching your academic portfolio and setting yourself apart in university applications. The online Classics Summer School aims to give students exposure to first year university level material to enhance their applications.
Hone Critical Analysis and Argument Building Skills
Learn to critically analyse key themes and language, form insightful opinions, and engage in thought-provoking discussions, fostering a deeper understanding of the subject. Each weekly session will aim to stimulate argument and debate, setting you up for success in potential Oxbridge Classics interviews.
Interweaving Antiquity: Fostering Connections in Classics
The Classics Summer School helps you link up classical texts, themes and ideas, setting the stage for strong university applications, especially for Oxbridge, who encourage lateral thinking and making connections. The course ensures interdisciplinary exploration into ancient philosophy, literature, sculpture, and more!
Hone Communication and Critical Discussion Skills For Potential Interviews
Enhance your communication and presentation skills through highly interactive classes, where you can confidently voice your ideas and engage with subject experts. Our Classics tutors mimic the form of the Oxbridge seminar for the Summer School sessions, ensuring prospective Oxbridge Classics applicants are set up for natural success in their interviews.
Gain Original, High Level Content Ideas For Your Classics Personal Statement
We aim to provide students with high level, exciting ideas that they can mention in their university application's personal statement, showcasing their passion for Classics and the skills acquired during our Classics summer programme. For students also interested in 1-1 Classics personal statement preparation, we offer tutorial sessions.
Navigating Critical Theories in Classics
Our Classics tutors will guide you through critical literary theories that shape our understanding of classical texts e.g. the ancient epics, equipping you with high level tools for literary analysis. Delve into intriguing questions about literary authenticity, character agency, or the symbiotic relationship between myth and text, to elevate your understanding of Ancient Greek and Roman literature.
A Taster of Classics Summer Course Topics
Homeric Epic: The Origins of Classical Literature
Homer is hailed as the poet who gave birth to the Western literary tradition. But who was Homer, and how should we look at the landmark poems attributed to his name? Studying The Iliad and The Odyssey, we will discuss the core themes that define the epic genre and why these songs are considered such masterpieces. This seminar will introduce students to “the Homer question” and the critical literary theories that shape our perception of the epics.
Violence, Vengeance, and Virtue: Morality on the Tragic Stage
Aeschylus’ Oresteia is the only surviving tragic trilogy we have from the heyday of Athenian Tragedy. Looking at the Agamemnon, Choephori, and Eumenides, we will examine the social and political significance of Athenian theatre alongside one of tragedies most infamous characters. Our discussion of Aeschylus’ works will allow students to consider the relationship between the plays of the Athenian tragedians.
Ovid’s Heroines: Reading, Writing, and Reclaiming Myth?
Penelope, Dido, Briseis, Ariadne: all women we’ve heard of, but have we ever heard from them? Unorthodox as ever, Ovid’s collection of letters from the famed heroines of myths begs questions about literary authenticity, character agency, and the symbiotic nature of myth and text. This session will include close examination of the Heroides and comparison with poetry from across the Greco-Roman world.
Greek and Roman Sculpture: Political Propaganda, Emotion and Aesthetics
Ancient Greece witnessed the birth of Western art and culture. Sculptors and artists ever since - from Michelangelo to Rodin - are indebted to Greek ideals of form and beauty. But what was sculpture used for? Political propaganda, emotional expression, aesthetic philosophy? This seminar will explore the themes of Greek sculpture and how they changed through the Hellenistic and Roman periods.
History and Philosophy: Ethics, Metaphysics and Epistemology
This seminar provides an overview of philosophical thought from the pre-Socratics and ancient philosophers through to its modern influences. It will focus on Plato and Aristotle, the two fathers of philosophy, and compare their views on ethics, metaphysics, and epistemology.
Classical Reception: From Da Vinci to Tarantino
How has the Classical world influenced modern day figures, from Da Vinci to Napoleon, T.S. Eliot to Tarantino? This seminar will explore the early reception of the classical world and how it lead to the Renaissance and shaped key periods throughout history. It will also explore how the tenets of Ancient Greek theatre shaped our understanding of tragedy (Shakespeare, opera, Spielberg) and how Aristotle’s conception of tragedy has influenced modern film and theatre.
Learn From Inspiring Classics Tutors From Oxford and Cambridge
Example Cambridge Classics Tutor: Lucas
Lucas graduated in Classics from Queens’ College, Cambridge, with a double first. This included a first-class dissertation on Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics. Lucas came top in the year for the English module on the History of Tragedy. He took literature papers on Horace, Virgil, and Homer. Lucas is also experienced in assisting students with personal statements and UCAS, particularly for Oxbridge entrance and interview practice.
Example Oxford Classics Tutor: Lorelei
Lorelei graduated from Oxford in 2021 with a degree in Classics, where she was the Crankstart scholar for the duration of attendance at the university. She learned Ancient Greek ab initio and achieved a strong 1st in Greek Language Moderations. Lorelei specialised in ancient literature and philosophy, and a coursework module on Classical Reception in modern English poetry. Lorelei's time at Oxford taught her many things, but by far the most valuable was learning how to learn and be curious about the world around you. School syllabi can give the impression that learning requires a rigid approach and understanding, but she believes it is vital to recognise the need for the flexibility and fluidity of ideas.
Booking the Classics Summer School
Book now to ensure your spot in the Summer School. Our booking page includes 2025 dates and pricing. We limit class sizes to facilitate group discussion, tailored support and individual feedback.
Are You Looking For Further Support For Your University Classics Application?
-
The Summer School is designed to provide exciting talking points for your personal statement. If you are looking for some one-to-one tuition tailored to your specific application, contact us to arrange sessions with an Oxbridge Classics tutor!
-
We offer specialised preparation for Classics admissions tests, including the Oxford CAT (Classics Admissions Test) and the Cambridge Classics pre-interview test. Visit our Admissions Test page on the U2 Tuition website to learn more.
-
Are you preparing for future interviews at Oxford, Cambridge or other top universities such as UCL? Our Oxbridge Classics tutors prepare students for all formats of interview question, hosting preparatory sessions and mock interviews. Learn more here.
Frequently Asked Questions FAQ – Classics Summer School
What is the Minds Underground Classics Summer School?
The Minds Underground Classics Summer School is an enriching online educational program designed for students passionate about Classics. Led by top Oxbridge-educated Classics graduates, the summer school delves into a diverse range of topics, providing an in-depth exploration of various classical authors, ancient philosophy, sculpture and more.
How will this Summer School benefit prospective Classics university applicants?
Participating in the online Classics Summer School can significantly enhance the university application of prospective Classics students. Beyond traditional classroom learning, you will engage with stimulating debates, critically analyse primary texts, and develop crucial skills in critical thinking and analytical discussion. This experience showcases your genuine passion for Classics, providing a valuable addition to your university application.
Is this suitable for students at different stages of their academic journey in Classics?
Yes, the Classics Summer School is designed to accommodate students at various stages of their academic journey in Classics. Whether you're a Year 12 student looking to enhance your university application or a passionate younger student aiming to broaden your understanding of Classics, this programme offers a diverse and enriching learning experience. Contact us if you would like to double check language requirements (e.g. level of Latin and Greek).
Are there specific topics covered during the Classics Summer School that are relevant for university applications?
Absolutely. The Classics Summer course covers a range of thought-provoking topics, such as Violence, Vengeance, and Virtue: Morality on the Tragic Stage or History and Ancient Philosophy. These discussions not only enrich your Classics knowledge but also enhance your analytical skills and deep interest in the subject, crucial for prospective Classics university applications.
How can I register for Minds Underground’s Online Classics Summer School?
Registration details and enrolment information can be found on the Summer School booking page. Complete the registration process and we will send you logistical details a month or so before the course commences.
What is the schedule for the virtual sessions?
The Classics Summer School sessions take place weekly, with each session lasting 1.5 hours. The course runs from July to September, providing a flexible and comprehensive learning experience.
Will I receive a certificate upon completion of the Classics Summer School?
Participants who successfully complete the programme are able to request a certificate of participation, which can be a valuable addition to your academic achievements and university applications.
Can I expect personal guidance and support during the Year 12 Classics Summer School?
Absolutely. Our Year 12 Classics Summer School is designed to provide personal guidance and support. We keep class sizes small to ensure lots of interaction and individual attention. You'll have the opportunity to interact with our team of experts, ask questions, and receive assistance with your academic and university preparation needs.
Is there an option to follow the Classics Summer School offline if I can’t attend the live sessions?
Yes, we understand that scheduling conflicts can arise. We offer an offline programme option where students unable to attend live sessions can receive full session recordings and materials. This allows you to engage with the content at your own pace and convenience.
How does the offline programme work, and what materials will I receive?
Students opting for the offline programme will receive access to recorded sessions, lecture materials, assignments, and resources related to each session. You can review the content at your own convenience, ensuring you don't miss out on any valuable information.
Can I still interact with instructors and ask questions if I choose the offline option?
While the offline Summer School doesn't provide real-time interaction with instructors, we encourage participants to reach out with questions through email. Our team is committed to providing support and addressing queries to enhance your learning experience.
Are there specific deadlines or timelines to follow for the offline programme?
The offline programme is designed to be flexible, allowing you to set your own pace within the programme's overall duration. However, we recommend staying on track with the programme schedule to ensure you have ample time for completion and any potential follow-up questions.
How do I enrol in the offline programme, and is there a separate registration process?
To enrol in the offline programme, simply follow the same registration process as for the live sessions on our website. During registration, you can indicate your preference for the offline option. You will receive access to the programme materials upon completion of each session.
Is there a difference in the cost between the live and offline programme options?
The cost for both the live and offline programme options remains the same. We aim to provide a flexible learning experience that accommodates different needs and schedules without additional cost considerations.
Can I switch from the live programme to the offline programme (or vice versa) if my circumstances change?
Yes, you can switch between the live and offline programme options based on your circumstances. Please contact our team to discuss any changes or transitions in your programme participation.
How do I access the recorded sessions and materials for the offline programme?
After registering for the offline programme, you will receive instructions on how to access the recorded sessions and materials through our online platform. This information will be provided to you before the start of the programme.
Will there be any assessments during the Classics Summer School?
The summer school primarily focuses on immersive learning and skill development rather than formal assessments. The emphasis is on exploring advanced topics, critical discussion and debate, as well as honing essential skills for future academic pursuits.
How can I prepare for the Classics Summer School?
Explore essential Classics concepts, review A-Level/ IB topics, and cultivate an inquisitive mindset for advanced curriculum engagement. Come prepared to actively participate, ask questions, and collaborate with peers to make the most of the learning experience.
How do I contact Minds Underground for further enquiries about the Classics summer course?
If you have any questions or require additional information, please feel free to contact us through the contact form on our website or send an email to enquiries@mindsunderground.com, quoting your contact number in case your email ends up in our Spam folder! Our team will be happy to assist you with any queries.