The cultures and societies of the Middle East have been deeply influential in shaping European and western values. In spite of this, the region and its peoples are often misunderstood and represented. Middle Eastern, Jewish and Islamic Civilizations is the study of the historical origins as well as contemporary culture of a wide range of societies of the region, providing students with an insight into the contemporary Middle East and to the challenges of diversity and multiculturalism in an increasingly globalized world.
The study of Classical Civilisation is concerned with the literature, thought and culture of Ancient Greece and Rome. Through the examination and contextualization of literary works and the analysis of the main aspects of ancient history and art, students will develop a thorough knowledge of the classical world and a critical approach to Greek and Roman literature. All texts are studied in translation and no knowledge of Greek or Latin is required, but there are opportunities to study the languages at an introductory level.