The aim of the course is to provide an introduction into Italian literature and literary history from the beginning of the 19th century to the present.

The course will develop students¿ ability to read and interpret fictional texts through gaining practice in literary analysis on the basis of knowledge of the relevant periods and authors.

The course is built around the study of central works of newer Italian literature. While studying these texts, special emphasis will be put on literary and linguistic traits and the way in which the works are tied to Italian history and culture.

Upon completing the course, the student is expected to:

Knowledge

• have gained general knowledge of the texts on the syllabus and of their cultural context
• have knowledge of the main trends in Italian literary history from the beginning of the 19th century to the present
• be familiar with some key literary techniques and their usage in the various genres found in the different works

Skills

• be able to explain the thematic and formal aspects of the syllabus texts both orally and in writing
• be able to place and pinpoint the works on the syllabus according the broader trends and developments in Italian literature history
• be able to use his/her knowledge of literary techniques and themes in writing independent analyses and discussions of curriculum texts

General competence

• be equipped to execute a project over time
• be capable of working independently on a research question related to the curriculum
• can communicate in Italian at a level beyond the elementary

Proficiency in Italian at least equivalent to that of students on the 100 level.

Students are advised to complete the following courses before taking ITAL122: ITAL 121, ITAL123 and ITAL125.

Instruction normally amounts to a two-hour lecture and a two-hour seminar session on a weekly basis for a period of 10 weeks.

If less than 5 students sign up for the course, the teaching may be adjusted to the number of students enrolled. Should this be the case, students will be informed about the alternative teachings plan at the beginning of the semester and before the registration deadline 1 Feb/1 Sep.

In the fall semester 2021, the attendance requirement will not apply due to the corona situation. However, it is highly recommended that students attend as much as possible.

During the semester students must give an oral presentation of approx. 10 minutes and hand in an exercise paper of approx. 500-750 words. The mandatory assignments will be assessed and either be approved/disapproved. 

Approval of mandatory assignments are valid for one additional semester following the semester of instruction.

The reading list provides information about what text are on the curriculum at any given time. The reading list will be ready by 1 Jun for the fall semester, and 1 Dec for the spring semester.

Students are also obliged to seek out additional in-depth information of the writers featured on the syllabus, available in literary histories, encyclopedia, as well as annotated editions of and companions to the works in question.

Student councilor: mailto:studierettleiar.if@uib.nostudierettleiar.if@uib.no

Exam administration: mailto:eksamen.if@uib.noeksamen.if@uib.no