In the morning the Classics department led an engaging and thought provoking session on the background to Homeric Epic, explaining how the Trojan War started with the abduction of Helen of Troy and ended with the ‘gift’ of the Trojan Horse. Pupils were introduced to the key Homeric values of Kleos, Timé and Xenia, and the difference between modern and ancient hero code.
After break we were joined by Oral Historian, Storyteller and BBC Producer, Wendy Shearer, who told the stories from Homer’s Odyssey in the most spell-binding way – the students were captivated! She also asked students to draw or write about their favourite magical land from the Odyssey and come up to the stage to present, which they took great joy in. She also explained how doing Classical Civilisation and Latin at GCSE and A Level has inspired the broad, varied and exciting career that she has.
After lunch, the girls split into three groups: Drama, DT and Music, to retell the stories from the Odyssey. It was so special to see the creativity, engagement and team work each of the groups demonstrated throughout the afternoon and particularly in the final musical and dramatic performances, in addition to the spectacular Odyssey Mini Golf Course the DT group made, where each hole was one of Odysseus’ adventures.
It was a day enjoyed by all, where pupils fully embraced the wonder of the ancient world and the opportunity to be inspired creatively by something composed thousands of years ago.