Classical Civilisation J199,11 June 2022 , OCR GCSE Past Papers with Mark Schemes

1. Greek Mythology and Religion | Demeter’s journey and actions to retrieve Persephone, myth explaining the seasons, Theseus’ defeat of Procrustes, significance of Pelops’ chariot race, sculpted myths on Greek temples, Dionysian worship practices at the City Dionysia.

2. Roman Mythology and Religion | Identification of Mars and Aeneas in religious sculptures, scenes on Roman altars, details of the Lupercalia festival, differences between the Pantheon and the Temple of Portunus, origins of the Pantheon.

3. Heroes and Mythical Battles | Achelous vs. Hercules, forms Achelous took, elements of heroism in the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, analysis of mythical heroics in Greek and Roman storytelling.

4. Religious Practices and Sacrifices | Importance of sacrifices in Greek and Roman religious life, differences in ritual sacrifices between the cultures, alternative methods of divine interpretation.

5. Comparative Mythological Analysis | Debate on whether Athena was more important to Athens than Mars was to Rome, comparison of foundation myths of Athens and Rome, evaluation of myths′ excitement and cultural significance.

6. Extended Response Topics | Influence of mythology on cultural identity, role of gods in civic religion, sculptural depictions of myths in temples, significance of religious festivals in ancient societies.