This course explores motherhood and its role in Italian culture primarily through literature and film, and also through art and music. Particular attention will be given to the history of Italian women’s writing and Italian feminist thought. Students will read novels and short stories by internationally renowned Italian women writers, including Elena Ferrante. Some of the questions that the course will ask are: What are the implications and ramifications of the institution of motherhood in Italian society? How does motherhood affect the modern family, and how has the modern family changed that same institution? How are migrant women writers thinking about motherhood? Students will add their own to these questions and pursue them to complete a final, research project. This course is taught in English.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of this course, students will:
-- distinguish the general features of women's and feminist writing
-- examine critically the characteristics of Italian women's and feminist writing, and apply this knowledge to a broader literary context.
--practice close analysis of literary texts and films
--deconstruct cultural biases
-- enhance their research and communication skills
Delivery Method: Fully in-person
Course Level: 2000-level
Credits: 4
M/Th 3:40PM - 5:30PM (Full-term)
Maximum Enrollment: 20
Course Frequency: Every 2-3 years
Categories: All courses , CSL , Fully In-Person , Italian , Literature
Tags: Feminist Thought , Italian Culture , Italian Film , Italian Literature , Literature in Translation , Women's Writing