Italian language and society
M Totaro-Genevois
8 points * 3 hours per week * First semester * Clayton * Prerequisites: None
This subject examines the various factors which contributed to the identification, consolidation and diffusion of today's national language, after political unification in Italy. It considers progressive changes in the relationship between standard Italian, regional varieties and dialects. The aim of the subject is to look at the development of the Italian language as a reflection of the social, political and cultural history of Italians themselves. Classes will involve the analysis of texts in their historical and cultural context as well as discussions of authentic materials relevant to the topics considered. The teaching and communication medium is Italian.
Assessment
Examinations (2 hours): 40% * Written assignments: 25% * Seminar participation: 35%
Prescribed text
De Mauro T Storia linguistica dell'Italia unita Laterza, 1963