ITA2270 - Modern Italian literature and society II

Leader(s): Annamaria Pagliaro

Offered

Not offered in 2009

Synopsis

The unit analyses the socio-historical context of unified Italy through a reading of three major Sicilian novels fundamental to the devlopment of the modern novel form. Attention will be paid to the theory behind narrative techniques intended to represent objective reality.

Objectives

The unit seeks to equip students with analytical skills transferable to broader contexts and should enable them to discern how methods of interpretation and preference for certain topics can influence the text. As students work progressively through the body of material, they should develop an understanding of the nature of realistic representation, the questionable claim of producing objective reality. They should be able to acquire those skills which will enable then to analyse critically a literary text: distinguish between author and narrator, be aware of narrative structures and of the relationship between the reader and the text.

Assessment

Written tasks: 70%
Examination (2 hours): 20%
Seminar participation: 10%

Contact hours

3 hours (2 hour seminar and 1 hour lecture) per week

Prerequisites

ITA1070/1080 or ITA2010/2020 or equivalent knowledge of the language