This course's main goals are articulated around one overarching activity: the comprehension of human experience as reflected in Italian literary documents of the pre-modern period, ca. 1225-1650, and the application of that knowledge to contemporary issues. Although the points of comparison are not necessarily direct (we start with Aristotle rather than modern philosophers), all the questions addressed are of vital interest to anyone who asks the fundamental philosophical questions of life. Who am I? What am I doing here? How should I live? and so on.

The course examines how Fellini's irony constantly debunks the imagery of the so-called "western culture" and highlights the need for new cultural narratives.

The course examines how Fellini's irony constantly debunks the imagery of the so-called "western culture" and highlights the need for new cultural narratives.

This course will approach the rich Mediterranean tapestry by focusing on connections among the various cultures of the Mediterranean basin. Emphases on art/architecture, religion, language, literature, environmental practices, commerce, and food, from a historical perspective. Examples will be taken chiefly from Sicily and Southern Italy, North Africa, Venice, Turkey (Constantinople) and the Middle East, Spain, and France; from the medieval period to more recent colonial occupations and contemporary migrations. Course taught in English.

Reading and discussion, selective grammar review and conversation. Development of reading skills, introduction to modern Italian texts, which will serve as a basis for class discussion and writing assignments. Grammar review and reinforcement will respond to student needs. Selective readings from the works of contemporary Italian authors. Course taught in Italian.

Prerequisites: ITAL 120 or 126

The four basic skills -- speaking, reading, writing, and understanding Italian. For those with no previous experience in the language.

The four basic skills -- speaking, reading, writing, and understanding Italian. For those with no previous experience in the language.

The four basic skills -- speaking, reading, writing, and understanding Italian. For those with no previous experience in the language.

Thatcher House, by arrangement. First year Programs feature small classes or discussion sections of lecture classes taught in the residence halls. In order to participate, students must register for at least two residentially based courses in each of their first two semesters at the University. Honors Colloquium (ITALIAN HO1) available.

Not available at this time