English Literature and Classical Literature & Civilisation

This innovative undergraduate degree course is for those fascinated by ancient cultures, as well as the written and spoken word.

Study the full range of English Literature, alongside the society and literature of the classical world. Embrace the diversity of Greek and Roman culture, drawing together literature, drama, myth, religion, history, philosophy and art. By studying Classical Literature and Civilisation as a Joint Honours degree with English Literature, you will be given a strong foundation in all major periods and genres and will be able to specialise in areas ranging from medieval poetry to twenty-first-century digital literary culture. You will also have the opportunity to take our specialist second-year undergraduate Shakespeare module and the possibility of participating in our residential trip in Stratford-upon-Avon.

In your Classical studies, explore the classical civilisations of Greece and Rome as well as the cultures of Ancient Egypt, Western Asia and the Byzantine Empire. Work with the plays, poems and speeches that have come down to us from antiquity, and study the monument, religion and mythology that make up classical civilisation.

Why study this course?

A city that values literature as much as you do – Explore our exceptional resources, including our Cadbury Research Library, consisting of over 200,000 rare books dating from 1471, as well as the Library of Birmingham, Europe’s largest regional library. Get involved with the numerous on campus writers' groups, including our very own newspaper, radio and TV stations and delve into the various citywide literature festivals.

Experience history where it happened - visit all the sites, monuments and museums you have been studying for the previous years. Our unique Study Tour module is funded by the department and enables you to travel abroad with your fellow students and academics.

Unparalleled access to history - Explore our Cadbury Research Libraries collections consisting of over 200,000 rare books dating from 1471 and more than four million manuscript items.

Participate in RSC-led workshops - make use of our internationally renowned Shakespeare Institute, based in Stratford-upon-Avon, collaborate with the Royal Shakespeare Company, and take part in fun and interactive study trips, such as the Stratford Residential and the writing workshop with Playwright Juliet Gilkes Romero.

16th for Classics, Ancient History and Archaeology in the Guardian University Guide 2024

26th for English in the QS World University Subject Rankings 2024