The Italians: Life, Culture, and Society

The purpose of this course is to paint a portrait of the Italian people through the colors and shades of the Italian lifestyle. The course will discuss the many points of pride of Italian culture as well as examine the many contradictions that may often baffle the foreign observer. Course topics will provide students with an in-depth analysis of the Italian identity addressed through readings of history, culture, and sociology. This course includes an Italian language component for intermediate language students. SLC (Studies with a Language Component) represents an engaging approach to learning that embraces a multi-disciplinary application of cultural education methods.

This stimulating approach broadens students' understanding of their studies and creates a link between their academic careers and the local cultural environment which surrounds them. Through SLC courses, students learn notions of the Italian language and terminology as a bridge to better understand and appreciate Italy's modern, multifaceted society. By being exposed to the Italian language, Students discover different elements of Italian communication and culture and learn the linguistic fundamentals that enable them to engage in simple, everyday conversation. While doing so, they examine the sociological and pedagogical aspects of Italy such as society, politics, education, family, geography, and the environment.

SLC is a learning methodology that integrates theory with practice: students learn the culture and language of Italy in class, then experience what they have learned through interaction with the local communities within the city of Florence and its neighborhoods. Diverse student populations benefit from this educational approach. Prerequisites: Two semesters of Italian language or equivalent.