CLASSICS - BOOK 10 AENEID

Classical Civilisation: Virgil’s Aeneid Book 10 (OCR A Level)

This KS5 resource is designed for OCR A Level Classical Civilisation and covers Book 10 of Virgil’s Aeneid across two lessons. Students are expected to have read the book beforehand, allowing lesson time to focus on close analysis, interpretation and exam preparation.

Lesson 1 begins with a skim-reading recap task and a short video summary before students analyse the Council of the Gods, considering divine intervention and responsibility. Contextual information is then provided on Aeneas’ arrival at the battle, followed by close analysis of a key extract. Students complete 10-mark question practice, using a provided thesis before developing their analysis of specific quotations on mini whiteboards. A scholarly interpretation is included to encourage critical discussion, before students examine Pallas’ role in battle and his death.

Lesson 2 focuses on the presentation of Aeneas, exploring the central question of whether his actions are driven by pietas or furor. Students then examine Juno’s plan to protect Turnus, considering the significance of divine intervention in the conflict. The lesson concludes with an independent worksheet on Mezentius and his son Lausus, exploring their relationship, their deaths at the hands of Aeneas, and what these episodes reveal about Aeneas’ character.

This resource is deliberately student-led and task-driven, combining close textual analysis, scholarly perspectives, teacher guidance and structured exam practice. It is suitable for Year 12 or Year 13 students studying OCR A Level Classical Civilisation.