Italian Society in 20 Films Part 3

This interactive course delves deeper into the influential events that have shaped modern and contemporary Italian society, using cinema as a lens for exploration.

We will investigate various crucial topics, including identity, gender and equality, feminism,

migration, politics, economy, the North-South divide, Mafia and organized crime, as well as fashion and design.

Iconic directors such as Antonioni, Visconti, De Sica, Rossellini, Fellini, Wertmüller,

along with contemporary filmmakers like Sorrentino, Guadagnino, Rohrwacher, and

many more, will guide us in comprehending the intricate social and political legacy of present-day Italy.

Throughout the course, we will engage in thought-provoking discussions on themes like

race, identity, gender and equality, feminism, immigration, politics, economy, the North-South divide,

Mafia and organized crime, as well as fashion and design.

Who is this course for?

This course is for students with advanced language skills (A-level or above) who have the ability to hold a general conversation in Italian. The course will be taught through the medium of Italian.

Learning and teaching

The emphasis of the course is on participation and students are encouraged to actively participate in class through various non-threatening forms of activities designed to stimulate communication.

Coursework and assessment

A portfolio of 3 essays and class participation. Our assessments are flexible to suit the course and the student.

The most important element of assessment is that it should enhance your learning. Our methods are designed to increase your confidence and we try very hard to devise ways of assessing you that are enjoyable and suitable for adults with busy lives.

Reading suggestions

• Anna Cento Bull, Modern Italy: A Very Short Introduction Oxford University Press, 2016
• John Foot, The Archipelago, Bloomsbury, 2019
• Selected Italian films

Library and computing facilities

As a student on this course you are entitled to join and use the University’s library and computing facilities. Find out more about using these facilities.

Accessibility

Our aim is access for all. We aim to provide a confidential advice and support service for any student with a long term medical condition, disability or specific learning difficulty. We are able to offer one-to-one advice about disability, pre-enrolment visits, liaison with tutors and co-ordinating lecturers, material in alternative formats, arrangements for accessible courses, assessment arrangements, loan equipment and dyslexia screening.