ENG and HUM 499-60 or 677-34

 

 

COURSE DESCRIPTION: In this cross-listed English/Humanities course, we will discuss selections from Dante's Divine Comedy and Boccaccio's Decameron, works that offer shrewd social commentary on religious mores and political movements. In addition, we will study selected lives of the saints (e.g., St. Mark the Evangelist, St. Catherine of Siena), along with selected works of Italian sculpture and painting, exploring their roots in religious, artistic, and historical traditions. Mary McCarthy's The Stones of Florence and Jan Morris's The World of Venice will offer us vivid and perceptive descriptions of two great Italian cities, told through their history and art. In addition, Florence's and Venice's 25 Best will provide detailed advice about how best to tour both cities. Finally, contemporary films will help us gain insights into Italian life and culture. Students, who will keep reading and travel journals, will write reflection essays after our journey to Italy.

 

During several class periods, we will meet with Dr. Kunkel's course participants to study historical background, learn a bit of Italian, and prepare for our adventures. In Italy, in addition to expert guided tours, everyone will have daily free time to explore of Italy ’ s beautiful museums, churches, piazzas, and other landmarks as well as opportunities for shopping and dining.