What does it mean to be Italian in 2020? How do young adults, the aging, members of the LGBTQ community, second-generation Italians and immigrants negotiate and construct their identities in Italy today? More specifically, what are the personal histories of these individuals and groups in a nation where ideologies of an imagined homogeneity persist, yet day-to-day, lived experiences shore up visions of a “modern,” multifaceted Italy?
Building on these questions, this course will examine the increasing presence, participation, and visibility of traditionally marginalized persons in Italy. Following a historical introduction that gives context to the Unification and subsequent nation-building projects in Italy, the course draws on an archive of interdisciplinary texts of multiple mediums (visual, auditory, etc.) to illustrate conventions, trends, and exceptions of be(com)ing Italian in 2020.
course
description
Making use of a multidisciplinary approach, this course will explore how contemporary Italian cinema has mirrored, responded to, and, in some cases, anticipated cultural and social transformations of Italian society. A central aim of this course is to better understand present-day Italy and Europe, by viewing and discussing those films produced in Italy that most reflect the nation, its culture, and its society. A secondary objective will be acquiring the appropriate language and tools necessary to analyze and discuss media. Topics will include work & the economy, organized crime & outlaws, migrants & second-generation Italians, and queer identities.
mask policy
As of August 6th, there is an on-campus, indoor mask requirement for everyone, including those who are fully vaccinated (Overview of fall 2021 COVID-19 policies at SUNY New Paltz). We will continue to follow and abide by all regulations required by SUNY New Paltz.
learning
objectives
1. to analyze and interpret significant themes and events in contemporary Italian society​
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2. to gain literacy in the language and concepts of the analysis of moving image culture
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3. to compare features of contemporary Italy to those of other regions, cultures, and civilizations
4. to clearly analyze premises, synthesize arguments, and evaluate content in appropriate historical, cultural, and film contexts
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5. to employ a range of critical thinking skills in blog entries, class discussions, and creative research projects