Classical Civilisation J199,11 June 2023 , OCR GCSE Past Papers with Mark Schemes

1. Greek Mythology and Religious Practices | Architectural elements and sculptural decorations of Greek temples, significance of mythological stories on temple reliefs, purpose and direction of temple entrances, types of statues and their religious dedication.

2. Greek Rituals and Festivals | Process of sacrificial offerings, significance of hecatombs in Greek religion, specific festivals involving large-scale sacrifices, community importance of religious rites, role of Theseus in Greek heroic tradition.

3. Roman Mythology and Foundation Legends | Key figures in Rome’s foundation (Romulus, Remus, Vestal Rhea Silvia, King Amulius), events leading to the founding of Rome, location and justification of Roman burial practices, enhancement of funeral processions by wealthy Romans.

4. Roman Religious Structures and Imperial Propaganda | Location and significance of major Roman religious monuments, connection between architecture and Roman state ideology, decorative elements promoting fertility and prosperity, representation of Augustus’ military achievements.

5. Heroism in Greek and Roman Mythology | Comparative analysis of Heracles/Hercules′ heroic qualities, divine interventions in his labors, limitations of artistic sources in understanding mythological figures, role of gods in shaping heroic narratives.

6. Comparative Analysis of Greek and Roman Traditions | Debate on whether Greek and Roman festivals were more about entertainment or worship, comparison between the Homeric Hymn to Demeter and Ovid’s Orpheus and Eurydice, influence of myths on cultural identity and literary traditions.