Italian Studies 251 - HipHop&Identity/Contemp Italy

What does it mean to be an Italian in the 21st century? How has this sense of identity changed as the country has become more multicultural? How does art play a role in combating racial stereotypes, effecting change, and giving a voice to the voiceless? This course examines Italy's racial past and present - perhaps surprisingly - through the lens of global hip-hop music and culture, an increasingly popular form of expression among first and second generation Italians. The course will cover a general history of the hip-hop genre in its relation to social justice. Students will become familiar with the leading voices of Italian hip-hop such as Mahmood, Ghali, and Amir Issaa and the role their work plays in the discussion of contemporary race relations in Italy. (Gen. Ed. AT, DG)