CLASSICS - Aeneid Book 7

Classical Civilisation: Virgil’s Aeneid Book 7 (OCR A Level)

This KS5 resource is designed for OCR A Level Classical Civilisation and covers Book 7 of Virgil’s Aeneid across two lessons (or three, depending on the depth of analysis). Students are expected to have read the book before the lessons, allowing class time to focus on interpretation, discussion, and close textual analysis.

The lessons begin by introducing Book 7 as the second half of the epic, considering how Virgil shifts the narrative from wandering to warfare. Students explore key moments including the symbolism of the sacred tree, the invocation of Erato, Anchises’ prophecy, and Latinus’ recognition of fate, discussing how these prepare both Aeneas and the reader for the conflict to come.

Students then examine Juno’s intervention, analysing her role in driving the action forward before focusing on Allecto, the significance of the Bacchants, and Turnus’ response. The lessons encourage students to consider how Virgil presents divine influence, madness, and the inevitability of war.

The final section explores the stag episode, the opening of the Gates of War, and the Catalogue of Italian Warriors, considering how these episodes contribute to the epic’s themes and its relationship with Homeric tradition. Throughout the lessons, students complete structured tasks supported by explanations provided on the PowerPoint or through teacher instruction, encouraging discussion and independent interpretation.

This resource is suitable for Year 12 or Year 13 students studying OCR A Level Classical Civilisation. It is intentionally student-led, combining close textual analysis, thematic discussion, and exam-focused thinking while allowing teachers flexibility over the pace and depth of coverage.