This advanced-level course presents significant aspects of Italian history, culture and society through the analysis of some of the best films produced in Italy since the Second World War. The content of the course will be organized around three historical/thematic modules: 1. The Second World War and the postwar years (Neorealism) 2. The 50s and 60s (Comedy Italian-style) 3. The contemporary scene (Neo-neorealism ; new Italian comedy) The choice of films will range from the masterpieces of neorealism (Rossellini, De Sica) to comedies Italian-style, to some of the recent international successes by young directors such as Salvatores and Soldini.
This course may not be repeated for credit.

Sections

This course will be offered next in Fall 2008.