Spring 2006

E 322 • Italian Cinema

Course Description

The course will consist of a broad and varied sampling of classic Italian films from WWII to the present. We will consider the works that typify major directors and major filmic and literary trends through five decades of filmmaking. I will trace a certain stylistic and thematic development from neorealism to postmodernism, pointing out both the continuity of the tradition and exceptions to it, in an attempt to define the art of Italian film. In the process, we will become more aware how we, as viewers, respond to films in socially and culturally determined ways. Finally, a number of supplemental readings will allow us to explore literary issues in the films we view.

Classes will include visual analysis of films using video clips and slides. The films will be in Italian with English subtitles.

Grading Policy

There will be 3 papers of 4 pages minimum, with one paper resubmitted as a rewrite.

Essays 70%
Quizzes and class participation 30%

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