Italian 106 - FYS: Liars/Pranksters/Jesters

Can serious artists play cruel jokes? Who laughs at Dante? This course explores the role of lies and practical jokes in Italian literature and the way the concept of humor has changed over time. We will investigate the intimate connection among power, religion, and laughter by reading some of the funniest (and politically charged) works of Italian theatre. Our authors will take us through the streets of Renaissance Florence, eighteenth-century Venetian canals, as well as the improvised 'factory theaters' of the seventies. Readings will be paired with stage performances and will include Dante, Machiavelli, Goldoni, Puccini, Fo, De Filippo, and Umberto Eco.

This course is limited to first-year students.