Senior status or advisor's permission. In seminar format, this course samples great Italian authors of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance as well as the fictional prose of contemporary Italian literature. Readings in translation are chosen from Dante, Boccaccio, Machiavelli and modern authors. Besides the poet's philosophy, discussion centers around his development of the medieval concept of love, use of Italian language and the role of Florence in The Divine Comedy. Students approach Dante's work from a variety of perspectives so as to remain flexible in interpretations.
Attention goes to the church's political and spiritual role.
From the Roman foundation to the Renaissance, this course will trace the history of Florence, a microcosm which gave a remarkable and unique contribution to Western civilization. Rife with churches and other buildings, Florence will be considered as a model to understand the evolution of the Italian city-republics. The writings of Dante Alighieri, Dino Compagni, Giovanni Villani and Franco Sacchetti, used for the descriptions of urban topography, will integrate the course. Some lessons will be scheduled on-site to visit selected monuments. Renowned for his gift as melodist, he was a new force in musical drama, possessing a great sense of theater.