GCSEs in ancient history will be introduced for the first time to capitalise on the popularity of Hollywood blockbusters such as 300 and Troy, examiners have said.
Teenagers will study key world events stretching back thousands of years following demand from pupils and teachers, it was disclosed.
The courses will focus on the foundation of Rome, Greece and the Persian wars, as well as historical figures such as Alexander the Great, Hannibal, Cleopatra and Agrippina the Younger.
There will also be detailed study of aspects of other civilisations, including Ancient Egypt, the Minoans, Mycenae, the Persian Empire, the Hellenistic world and the Celts, said OCR, one of England's three main exam boards.
The course for 14- to 16-year-olds follows the popularity of an ancient history A-level and growing demand for lessons in Latin and Greek.
Prof Tom Harrison, the chairman of the Joint Association of Classical Teachers, said it had also been fuelled by films such as Troy, starring Brad Pitt, and 300, recounting the battle between Spartan soldiers and a Persian army.
"With the huge public interest in the ancient world, classics nationally is buoyant and this new qualification will bring the subject to a younger, even broader, audience," he said.
The course will be offered to younger students from September next year.
