Italian 221WA - Introduction to Italian Culture and Literature I: 'Power and the Italian Renaissance: Writers, Artists, Architects'

What is the role of writers, artists, and intellectuals in society? Why are they called to actively participate in their communities' social and political life? Should they turn their works into instruments of propaganda, or should they instead lead public opinion and influence policymakers? In this course, we will investigate the intersections between political power and some of the most important works of medieval and Renaissance Italian literature, painting, sculpture, and architecture. Readings will include La Compiuta Donzella, Dante, Lorenzetti, Petrarch, Boccaccio, Leonardo, Isabella d'Este, Machiavelli, Elisabetta Gonzaga, Castiglione, and Moderata Fonte.

Course limited to sophomores, juniors and seniors; Prereq: ITAL-201.