Cities have their own characters, a character built in their architecture, developed in their history, celebrated in literary, cinematic and musical texts. The exploration of these texts (chosen from a variety of sources and media, and from different historical periods) will engage the students in a formative path of understanding, discovery and appreciation of what makes the Italian culture unique in the contemporary context. Students will be encouraged to find their own ways of exploration according to their interests and skills, making significant stops in the most iconic features of the cultural and architectural cityscapes, researching on them and sharing their findings in class. This module will offer the opportunity for deeper understanding, individual research and critical discussion. This virtual journey through Italian cities will provide the students with the necessary knowledge and the cultural awareness to make the most of, and fully enjoy, their actual explorations during their Year Abroad and/or their future trips to the \"Bel Paese\".
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Demonstrate an understanding of the cultural history of Italy through the distinctive features of its major cities and iconic landmarks.
Critically analyse the meaning and originality of the creative works (from literature to arts) generated in the cities against the background of their specific urban and regional context.
Demonstrate independent learning, critical thinking and the ability to perform a range of research tasks in order to evaluate diverse local and national trends.
Develop presentation skills, the capacity to engage with argumentative and persuasive communication.
Recognise and develop appreciation for the diversity and the original character of the urban culture in Italy for a global citizenship.
Assessment
Assessment Methods & Exceptions
Assessment:
10-minute oral in-class presentation in English (25%)
2,000-word Written Essay in English (75%)
Alternative assessment if on campus activity is restricted: live oral assessments will be conducted via an online platform.
