Spring 2008

ITL 326K • INTRODUCTION TO ITALIAN LITERATURE: MID AGES - 18TH C

Course Description

ITL 321 AND 326K MAY NOT BOTH BE COUNTED.

In this course we will read and discuss selected works from the Middle Ages and Renaissance. All reading, writing and discussion will be in Italian. Since love is a central, unifying theme of many course texts, we shall consider several of its nuances and representations: spiritual love; adult sexual and emotional intimacy; family relationships; friendships; group solidarity; and love of one's homeland. In addition to Dante's Inferno and selected novelle from Boccaccio's Decameron, we will read and discuss works by Francis of Assisi, Guido Guinizzelli, Compiuta Donzella, Guido Cavalcanti, Cecco Angiolieri, Catherine of Siena, Petrarch, Michelangelo, Vittoria Colonna, Machiavelli , Gaspara Stampa, and Galileo.

Grading Policy

Two exams: 50%
Quizzes and short written assignments: 25%
Class preparation and presentation: 25%
Regular attendance is required: No student who misses more than 6 classes (3 weeks) for any reason can complete the course with a passing grade.

Texts

Dante, Inferno (Rizzoli edition, 2001)
Boccaccio, Dieci novelle dal Decameron (Guerra Edizioni Guru, 1997)
Course packet

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