INQ-177 | The Celluloid Boot: Visions and Versions of Italy through her Films

Topic Description:

This course will focus on Italian historical, cultural, and geographical identities as presented through Italian films. What version of history is revealed through her films? What do these films tell us about the Italian nation and her people? The course will study major movements in modern Italian history (the Risorgimento & Unification, the rise of Fascism, WWII and post-WWII, the North/South divide) and the attempts of some of Italy’s film directors (Luchino Visconti, Roberto Rossellini, Vittorio De Sica, and others) to contextualize these periods. The artistic innovations and contributions made by filmmakers such as Federico Fellini and Pier Paolo Pasolini will also be examined. In order to better gain an appreciation for the Italian sense of place and belonging, the regions and cities that appeared in the frame will be explored to understand why these images endure. Daily screenings are mandatory and selected readings will include Italian history and some literature in translation. Proficiency in Italian is not required.

Course Types Offered: On-Campus

Topic Approved: November 2006