FILM 430 – History Of Italian Cinema And Society

Formerly called FILM/HIST 430 – History Of Italian Cinema And Society

Description
This course analyses the history of Italian cinema, its role in society, and how the most important changes in Italian society are reflected in some of Italy’s most famous movies. It focuses on the most important periods and genres in the history of Italian cinema, such as Neorealism and the commedia all’italiana; the work of directors such as Rossellini, De Sica, and Visconti; and on the so-called “New Italian Cinema.” From the socio-anthropological perspective, this course traces the evolution of the Italian family from the end of World War II to the present day and examines the patterns of Italian migration. The analysis also explores the two crucial transformations that have occurred in Italian society from the end of World War II to the present day: the so-called “Economic Miracle,” and the advent of commercial television.
The course is taught through a combination of formal lectures (including PowerPoint presentations), document discussion workshops, film presentations and outdoor activities. The lectures provide a broad outline of the respective period while the workshops enable students to focus on key topics or themes. Students engage in full class discussion and small group work.

Objectives
Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to demonstrate a detailed, critical understanding of the fundamental aspects of Italian cinema and how cinema has evolved in Italy from the 1950s to the present day.

Textbooks
During orientation at the Institute, students will receive a list of textbooks they are required to purchase. Students should not purchase any texts before orientation.

Course descriptions may be subject to occasional minor modifications at the discretion of the instructor.

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