2024_OCR - GCSE Classical Civilisation
The Homeric World
Merged Question Paper & Marking
Scheme
(Tuesday 21 May 2024 – Afternoon)
Code: J199/21
, Oxford Cambridge and RSA
Tuesday 21 May 2024 – Afternoon
GCSE (9–1) Classical Civilisation
J199/21 The Homeric World
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,Oxford Cambridge and RSA - GCSE (9–1) Classical Civilisation Exam Overview
Exam Date: Tuesday, 21 May 2024 – Afternoon Session
Exam Code: J199/21 The Homeric World
The GCSE Classical Civilisation J199/21 exam, The Homeric World, focuses on the study of the
epic poems attributed to the ancient Greek poet Homer, primarily the Iliad and the Odyssey. This
exam assesses students' understanding of the major themes, characters, and cultural context of
these works, exploring their significance in Greek society and their enduring influence on Western
literature and culture.
Key Topics and Themes:
1. The Iliad and the Odyssey Overview
o The Iliad Overview: Students will study the key events, themes, and characters of
the Iliad, focusing on the Trojan War, the heroism of Achilles, the concept of kleos
(glory), and the roles of gods in the conflict.
o The Odyssey Overview: Analysis of the Odyssey, focusing on Odysseus’ ten-year
journey home after the fall of Troy, exploring themes of cunning, loyalty, and the
relationship between humans and the gods.
2. Heroes and Heroism
o Achilles: In-depth study of Achilles as the central hero of the Iliad, exploring his
motivations, pride, wrath, and the concept of honor in Greek society.
o Odysseus: Study of Odysseus as the protagonist of the Odyssey, focusing on his
intellect, resourcefulness, and the themes of perseverance and the return to home
(nostos).
o Other Key Characters: Exploration of other significant heroes and figures in both
epics, such as Hector, Paris, Helen, and Penelope, and their roles in the storylines.
3. The Role of the Gods
o Divine Intervention: Understanding the role of gods and goddesses in both the
Iliad and the Odyssey, including their intervention in mortal affairs, their
relationships with humans, and their influence on the outcomes of key events.
o Gods of the Iliad and Odyssey: Detailed study of major gods, including Zeus,
Hera, Athena, Apollo, and Poseidon, and their influence on the human characters,
especially during moments of war and conflict.
o Moral and Ethical Lessons: The gods' involvement in shaping the moral and
ethical behavior of the characters, and how their actions reflect Greek views on
fate, justice, and divine will.
4. Themes in the Iliad and the Odyssey
o War and Peace: Exploration of the nature of war in the Iliad, including the glory
and tragedy of battle, the role of warriors, and the consequences of violence. In
contrast, the Odyssey presents peace, homecoming, and the challenges of reuniting
with family after years of separation.
o Fate and Free Will: The tension between fate and free will in the Iliad and the
Odyssey, particularly in relation to the heroes' choices and the influence of divine
powers.
o Identity and Recognition: The theme of identity, especially in the Odyssey, where
Odysseus is often disguised or unrecognized, and the trials he faces to regain his
rightful place.
o Xenia (Hospitality): The importance of hospitality in both epics, where the
treatment of guests (often strangers or gods in disguise) plays a key role in the plot
and moral lessons.
5. The Homeric World and Greek Society
o Warrior Culture: Study of the Greek warrior ethos, particularly in the Iliad,
where personal honor, glory in battle, and the concept of kleos (glory or fame)
drive the actions of the warriors.
, o The Role of Women: Exploration of the roles of women in both epics, such as
Helen, Andromache, and Penelope, and how their stories reflect Greek views on
gender, loyalty, and the home.
o The Importance of Family and Loyalty: The concept of loyalty to family and
kin, particularly in the Odyssey, where Odysseus' return to Ithaca is centered on his
desire to reunite with his wife, son, and homeland.
6. The Iliad and Odyssey in Context
o Historical and Cultural Context: Understanding the historical and cultural
context of the Iliad and the Odyssey, including their composition in the 8th century
BCE, the oral tradition of storytelling, and their role in shaping Greek identity and
values.
o The Legacy of Homer: The influence of Homer’s works on later Greek literature,
art, and philosophy, and their lasting impact on Western culture, including the way
they shaped views of heroism, morality, and the human condition.
7. Key Episodes and Passages
o Important Scenes in the Iliad and Odyssey: Detailed study of key episodes, such
as Achilles’ wrath, the death of Hector, the slaying of the suitors in the Odyssey,
and Odysseus’ encounters with the Cyclops and Circe, with a focus on their
narrative and thematic significance.
Examination Skills
Textual Analysis: Students will need to analyze key excerpts from both the Iliad and the
Odyssey, identifying literary devices, character motivations, and thematic elements.
Essay Writing: Constructing well-structured essays that evaluate the major themes,
characters, and the cultural significance of the Homeric epics, supported by specific
references to the texts.
Comparative Analysis: The ability to compare and contrast the Iliad and the Odyssey in
terms of themes, characters, and narrative style, and to evaluate how each epic reflects
different aspects of Greek society and values.
This exam will assess students' understanding of Homeric literature, focusing on how the Iliad
and the Odyssey illuminate Greek mythology, religion, and culture, while examining the complex
relationships between gods, heroes, and society. Students will explore these epics as both works
of literature and as windows into the Homeric worldview.
