Italian


Faculty List

Professors Emeriti
R. Capozzi, MA, PhD 
M. Ciavolella, PhD
K. Eisenbichler, MA, PhD (V)
F. Guardiani, Dott in Lett, MA, PhD (SM) 
M. Kuitunen, Dott in Lett, MA, Phil M,Ufficiale Ord. Merit It. Rep. 
J.A. Molinaro, MA, PhD, FRSC
D. Pietropaolo, MA, PhD (SM), Commend. Rep. It. 
O.L. Pugliese, MA, PhD (V)

Professor and Chair of the Department
L. Somigli, Dott in Lett, PhD

Professors
S. Bancheri, MA, PhD (University of Toronto Mississauga)
E. Brilli, Dott in Lett, PhD
M. Lettieri, MA, PhD (University of Toronto Mississauga)
F. Pierno, Dott in Lett, DEA, Doctorat 

Associate Professors
E. Morra, Dott in Lett, PhD
A. Zambenedetti, Dott in Lingue e Lett Straniere, MA, PhD

Assistant Professors
L. Ingallinella, Dott in Filologia Mod, PhD
A. Pesarini, Dott in Antr, MSc, PhD

Associate Professors Emeriti, Teaching Stream 
​B. Magliocchetti, MA (SM)
M. Pasquarelli Clivio, MA, PhD (SM) 

Associate Professor, Teaching Stream
M. Scarci, MA, PhD (V)

Assistant Professors, Teaching Stream
P. Frascà, MA, PhD
A. Lanza, Dott in Storia, DEA, PhD

Senior Lecturers Emeritae
R. Longo Lavorato, MA, PhD (SM) 
A. Urbancic, B Ed, MA, PhD (V) 

Introduction

To study Italian is not only to acquire a language, but also to study a rich literature and a many-sided culture which have played an important, and sometimes dominant, role in Western civilization. For Canadians, the Italian contribution bears a special significance: the vast influx of Italians has brought changes in our way of life and a living presence to reinforce traditional Italian influences, thus enriching the meaning of the term Canadian. Italian combines well with other modern languages and literatures, and other programs such as European Studies, Literary Studies, and Mediaeval and Renaissance Studies, but is by no means restricted to these. Students may choose from Specialist, Major and Minor programs in Italian Studies. Italian courses are offered for beginners as well as for students who may have prior knowledge or instruction in Italian. Oral practice is included in all language courses. Students well qualified in the Italian language may be excused from language courses in first year (please see the Undergraduate Coordinator). 300 and 400-level courses are available to qualified third and fourth-year students and may be taken concurrently. These courses offer a wide range of options in language, literature, linguistics, culture and cinema. There are courses in Italian literature, culture and cinema that are given in English and have no language requirement. In conjunction with Woodsworth College, ITA courses may be taken in Italy at the University of Siena during July and August. A number of bursaries are available. Students may apply to take their Third Year in Italy under the Study Abroad Program in conjunction with the Centre for International Experience (https://internationalexperience.utoronto.ca/).

Undergraduate Coordinator: 416-926-2338
Email: italian.undergrad@utoronto.ca
Enquiries: 100 St. Joseph St., Room 204 (416-926-2345)
Website: https://italianstudies.utoronto.ca/

Italian Programs

Italian Specialist (Arts Program) - ASSPE2524

Enrolment Requirements:

This is an open enrolment program. A student who has completed 4.0 credits may enrol in the program.

Completion Requirements:

(10.0 credits, including at least 1.0 credit at the 400-level)

  1. The following language courses: ITA100Y1, ITA250Y1, ITA350Y1, ITA450H1
  2. An additional 1.0 ITA credit at the 200-level
  3. 2.0 credits at the 300+ level in literature, including a 0.5 credit in each of the THREE periods of Italian literature:

    Medieval / Renaissance: ITA300H1/​ ITA311H1/​ ITA312H1/​ ITA320H1/​ ITA321H1/​ ITA332H1/​ ITA370H1/​ ITA400H1/​ ITA420H1/​ ITA455H1

    Baroque / Enlightenment: ITA301H1/​ ITA348H1/​ ITA390H1/​ ITA420H1/​ ITA455H1

    Modern / Contemporary: ITA301H1/​ ITA310H1/​ ITA330H1/​ ITA380H1/​ ITA381H1/​ ITA410H1/​ ITA421H1/​ ITA455H1
  4. One 0.5 credit from the following: ITA360H1/​ ITA363H1/​ ITA364H1/​ ITA431H1/​ ITA432H1/​ ITA433H1
  5. One 0.5 credit from the following: ITA311H1/​ ITA320H1/​ ITA321H1/​ ITA330H1/​ ITA332H1/​ ITA340H1/​ ITA341H1/​ ITA342H1/​ ITA345H1/​ ITA348H1/​ ITA370H1/​ ITA380H1/​ ITA400H1/​ ITA420H1/​ ITA441H1/​ ITA445H1
  6. 2.0 credits at the 300+ level with at least one 0.5 credit at the 400-level
  7. ITA495H1

NOTE: No more than 2.0 credits where the language of instruction is English may be counted towards the Specialist Program.

Italian Major (Arts Program) - ASMAJ2524

Enrolment Requirements:

This is an open enrolment program. A student who has completed 4.0 credits may enrol in the program.

Completion Requirements:

(7 full courses or their equivalent, including at least one half-course equivalent at the 400 level)

  1. The following language courses: ITA100Y1, ITA250Y1, ITA350Y1
  2. One additional 200-series ITA full course equivalent
  3. One full course or equivalent at the 300+ level in literature
  4. One half course from the following: ITA360H1/​ ITA363H1/​ ITA364H1/​ ITA431H1/​ ITA432H1/​ ITA433H1
  5. One half course from the following: ITA311H1/​ ITA320H1/​ ITA321H1/​ ITA330H1/​ ITA332H1/​ ITA340H1/​ ITA341H1/​ ITA342H1/​ ITA345H1/​ ITA348H1/​ ITA370H1/​ ITA380H1/​ ITA400H1/​ ITA420H1/​ ITA441H1/​ ITA445H1
  6. One additional 300+ series course of which at least one half course must be at the 400 level

Italian Culture and Communication Studies Minor (Arts Program) - ASMIN1245

Enrolment Requirements:

This is an open enrolment program. A student who has completed 4.0 credits may enrol in the program.

Completion Requirements:

4 full courses (or equivalent) including one full course equivalent from any of the following:

ITA340H1/​ ITA341H1/​ ITA342H1/​ ITA345H1/​ ITA441H1/​ ITA445H1 (Italian cinema courses)

ITA360H1/​ ITA363H1/​ ITA364H1/​ ITA431H1/​ ITA432H1/​ ITA433H1 (Italian linguistics courses)

ITA356Y0/​ ITA357Y0/​ ITA358Y0/​ ITA359Y0 (Italian culture courses)


Italian Minor (Arts Program) - ASMIN2524

Enrolment Requirements:

This is an open enrolment program. A student who has completed 4.0 credits may enrol in the program.

Completion Requirements:

(4 full courses or their equivalent)

Any 4 ITA courses (at least one full course equivalent must be a 300/400-level literature course)


 

Faculty of Arts & Science Language Citation

The Department of Italian Studies participates in the Faculty of Arts and Science’s Language Citation initiative for Italian. Proficiency in Italian is an invaluable asset for those wishing to pursue a career in social work, business, applied science, government, law, medicine or education. A knowledge of Italian complements undergraduate studies in other areas, such as music, fine art, literary studies, European history or political science, to name a few.

The Language Citation recognizes a significant level of achievement in language study with a high level of academic success. The Citation in Italian is available to students who, having completed a first-year language course in Italian (ITA100Y1) (or the equivalent prerequisite training), earn a grade of at least B- in a second-year language course (ITA250Y1) and in a third-year language course (ITA350Y1).

Students should note that, as explained in the About Programs of Study section of this Calendar, the Language Citation is not equivalent to an academic program and that enrolment in a program is not necessary in order to earn the recognition bestowed by the Citation.


Guidelines for students who wish to begin the study of the Italian language at the university level

ITA100Y1 - Italian Language for Beginners – An introductory course for students with no previous knowledge of the Italian language. Not open to students with grade 11 and/or 12 U or M Italian or with previous experience, exposure or instruction in Italian. 

ITA250Y1 - Intermediate Italian – The subsequent course for students who have completed ITA100Y1. 

This course is also open to students who have completed Grade 11 and/or 12 Italian (U or M level) or with previous experience or instruction in Italian. For this group, the Department may conduct assessment to determine appropriate placement.

Self-placement is not allowed in the Department of Italian Studies. The Department reserves the right to place students in the language course appropriate to their level of language skill. In ITA100Y1 students will be asked to fill out a questionnaire on their knowledge of, past studies and background in Italian. The questionnaire will also be filled out by all other language students who do not have the proper prerequisite in all other languages. The Department may conduct assessment to determine appropriate placement.

Italian Courses

ITA100Y1 - Italian Language for Beginners

Hours: 72S

An introduction to the main elements of the Italian language. The development of speaking, reading, and writing skills. Introduction to Italian culture and texts.

A questionnaire on students' knowledge of and background in Italian will be administered shortly before or during the first class.

Exclusion: Grade 11 and/or 12 Italian (U or M level) or previous experience or instruction in Italian.
Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA102Y0 - Practical Italian

Hours: 48L/24P

A course specifically designed for students who wish to take Italian as a breadth requirement. Emphasis will be given to basic aspects of communication in a functional context. This course cannot be used towards any Minor, Major or Specialist program in Italian. (Offered in Siena only)

Exclusion: 4U Italian or any previous university level Italian language course
Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA196H1 - Image and Text in Medieval and Renaissance Italian Culture

Hours: 24L

The course will explore various aspect of the interaction between literature and the visual arts in Italy from the Middle Ages to the end of the Renaissance. The focus will be on the intersection between the literary and visual modes of perception in the works of representative Italian authors from the Fourteenth to the Sixteenth Centuries. Restricted to first-year students. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.

Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA197H1 - The Fine Art of Murder: Reading Detective Fiction

Hours: 24L

Since its inception in the Nineteenth century, detective fiction has been one of the most popular literary genres, proving adept at both entertaining and shining a critical light on social and political problems. This course will explore the many faces of detective fiction addressing questions such as: Why does crime hold such a fascination for modern audiences? What kind of pleasure do we derive from reading stories that often follow established conventions and rules? What do these novels about crime and punishment tell us about broader social and political issues? Restricted to first-year students. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.

Exclusion: VIC197H1
Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA198H1 - Machiavelli and Machiavellianism

Hours: 24L

An examination of Machiavelli’s political doctrine in The Prince and the development of his ideas in politics, ethics and the arts. Special attention will be paid to the enduring relevance of his legacy in the modern world. Restricted to first-year students. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.

Exclusion: VIC142H1
Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

JCI199H1 - Italians in Canada: Histories, Journeys, Struggles, Successes

Hours: 24L

This course explores the presence of people from the Italian peninsula in what is now known as Canada. The course begins with discussions on Giovanni Caboto’s and other explorers’ journeys to then focus on contemporary Italian-Canadian communities. This course provides students with the critical tools necessary to understand various historical, linguistic, culinary, spiritual, political, and creative elements of Italian-Canadian identity and life. Students of both Italian and non-Italian heritage are most welcome in this course, which is taught in English. Restricted to first-year students. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.

Breadth Requirements: Society and its Institutions (3)

ITA199H1 - Italian Fascism and Global Responses: The Dark Side of Italianità

Hours: 24L

After WWI, Italian society faced a political, economic, and moral crisis that resulted in the rise of fascism. Using diverse sources (media, literary texts, movies, architecture and design), this course explores various reactions in Italy and abroad to the rise of Mussolini and the totalitarian State. Why did common people, intellectuals, politicians, and business and community leaders around the globe succumb to the seduction of fascism? How did other people denounce fascist violence? After an introduction to Italian fascism, the course will consider global reactions to Italian fascism and diverse responses in Italian communities abroad (e.g. Canada, USA, Argentina). Restricted to first-year students. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.

Breadth Requirements: Society and its Institutions (3)

ITA200H1 - Major Italian Authors in Translation: from Dante to Tasso

Hours: 24L

The course will focus on authors from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance who had a defining influence on Western literature, such as Dante, Petrarca, Boccaccio, Machiavelli, Ariosto and Tasso. This course includes a component designed to enhance students’ research experience. (Given in English)

Exclusion: ITA300H1
Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA201H1 - Major Italian Authors in Translation: from Marino to Calvino

Hours: 24L

The course will focus on authors from the Baroque to the Twentieth Century who had a defining influence on Western literature, such as Marino, Goldoni, Manzoni, Pirandello, Calvino. This course includes a component designed to enhance students’ research experience. (Given in English)

Exclusion: ITA301H1
Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA210H1 - “The Most Beautiful Language”: Italian between Past, Present and Future Challenges

Hours: 24L

In his recent book, titled “The most beautiful language” (La più bella del mondo, Turin: Einaudi, 2018), Stefano Jossa eulogizes Italian, arguing that it should be learned by many. However, what do we really know about it? The course will try to answer some crucial questions: How was the Italian language born and developed? What are its main characteristics? How are the many dialects perceived in Italy today? What status do they have vis-à-vis the national language? What about the expansion of English? Are the dialects disappearing or still surviving? How is Italian language facing the new social questions (gender, diversity, etc.)? How are social media changing the way the Italian language is written and spoken?

Breadth Requirements: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

ITA233H1 - Italian-Canadian Literature

Hours: 24L

The course will explore how notions of identity and (self)-representation emerge in literature by Canadian writers of Italian descent, illustrating the critical evolution of the immigrant journey from its historical experience to its current condition. This course includes a component designed to enhance students’ research experience. (Given in English)

Breadth Requirements: Society and its Institutions (3)

ITA240Y1 - History of Italian Cinema

Hours: 48L/72P

This course surveys the history of Italian cinema and the sociopolitical circumstances surrounding the film industry, from its early days to the present, while also introducing the students to methods of analysis and research appropriate to the field. Emphasis will be placed on films from the silent era to the 1960s, and from the 1960s to the present. This course includes a component designed to introduce students to methods of scholarly research appropriate to the field.

The course is given in English and all films shown have English subtitles.

Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

JCI250H1 - Italian Canadian Communities

Hours: 24S

This course examines the past and present settlement patterns of those of Italian descent in Canada, in rural areas and cities, including increasing suburbanization. Students will address issues such as work and employment and political participation. Challenges and opportunities will be examined, with respect to issues such as migration, community-building, belonging, and discrimination.

Breadth Requirements: Society and its Institutions (3)

ITA250Y1 - Intermediate Italian

Hours: 72S

Grammar review, readings of Italian authors and oral practice to enhance comprehension and expressive skills.

Students without the prerequisite will be asked to fill out a questionnaire on their knowledge of and background in Italian.

Prerequisite: ITA100Y1/ ITA151Y1; Grade 11 and/or 12 Italian (U or M level), or previous experience or instruction in Italian, or permission of the Department.
Exclusion: ITA251Y1
Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA299Y1 - Research Opportunity Program

Credit course for supervised participation in faculty research project. Details at https://www.artsci.utoronto.ca/current/academics/research-opportunities…. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.

ITA300H1 - History of Italian Literature: Middle Ages and Renaissance

Hours: 24L

This course provides a chronological, comprehensive view of Italian literature and its major authors and trends, in their socio-historical contexts from its beginnings to the Renaissance. This course includes a component designed to enhance students’ research experience.

Prerequisite: ITA250Y1/ ITA251Y1
Exclusion: ITA200H1
Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA301H1 - History of Italian Literature: Baroque to Contemporary

Hours: 24L

This course provides a chronological, comprehensive view of Italian literature and its major authors and trends, in their socio-historical contexts from the Baroque period to the present day. This course includes a component designed to enhance students’ research experience.

Prerequisite: ITA250Y1/ ITA251Y1
Exclusion: ITA201H1
Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA310H1 - The 'Journey' in 19th Century Italian Literature

Hours: 24L

The course illustrates Italy's contribution to the history of the trope during a time when countries became increasingly interdependent and conscious of each other's cultures. Through literary and social analysis the course traces the most vital aspects of the journey motif. This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience. (Given in English)

Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA311H1 - Mediaeval Italian Literature in Translation: Dante

Hours: 24L

A study of the Vita Nuova and of the Divine Comedy within the literary and cultural contexts of the Middle Ages. This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience. (Given in English)

Exclusion: ITA320H1/ ITA321H1
Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA312H1 - Mediaeval Italian Literature in Translation: Petrarch and Boccaccio

Hours: 24L

A study of Petrarch's Canzoniere and of Boccaccio's Decameron in relation to later Middle Ages. This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience. (Given in English)

Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA314H1 - Italian Design: Fashion, Artistry, Genius

Hours: 24S

“Made in Italy” is a global standard for creativity and excellence in fashion, architecture, and industrial design. This course will explore how art, imagination, and craft have intersected in different areas of Italian culture over time. Based on an individual instructor’s area of expertise, themes explored may include studies of the Italian fashion industry, food culture, commercial art, and industrial design. Primary materials will include artworks, literary texts, material objects, and mixed media that demonstrate the importance of design culture in Italy and the impact of Italian design culture in the world. This course includes a component designed to enhance students’ research experience.

Prerequisite: 4.0 credits
Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA315H1 - Sex and Gender in Contemporary Italy

Hours: 24S

This course will focus on theoretical and cultural productions that deal with issues of sexuality and gender in (contemporary) Italy. Based on an individual instructor’s area of expertise, themes explored may include feminism and women’s rights, sexual liberation and LGBTQ+ rights, Queer-of-Colour critique, and other topics within the study of sexual and gender diversity. Primary materials will include manifestos, theoretical essays, novels, short stories, and films that deal with gender and sexual diversity in the Italian-speaking world and from a transnational perspective. Linguistic issues will also be discussed. This course includes a component designed to enhance students’ research experience.

Prerequisite: 4.0 credits
Breadth Requirements: Society and its Institutions (3)

ITA320H1 - Dante: Vita Nuova and Divina Commedia (Inferno)

Hours: 24L

Dante's poetry and great Christian epic of conversion explode with the passions of this world. This course focuses on intertextual and rhetorical strategies used to fashion the author's complex vision of contemporary society within the framework of providential history. This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience.

Prerequisite: ITA250Y1/ ITA251Y1
Exclusion: ITA311H1
Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA321H1 - Dante: Divina Commedia (Purgatorio and Paradiso)

Hours: 24L

A continuation of ITA320H1, this course examines the Purgatorio and the Paradiso in the context of Dante's vision of contemporary society. This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience.

Prerequisite: ITA320H1
Exclusion: ITA311H1
Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA332H1 - Love in the Renaissance

Hours: 24L

An exploration of the theme of love in the Renaissance and its development in a variety of literary forms. Analysis of treatises, poetry, short stories and letters with the purpose of examining intertextuality and the practice of imitation, as well as the social and political aspects of love, such as marriage, women's position in society, pornography, homosexuality and other issues. This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience. (Given in English)

Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA333H1 - Identity Politics in Renaissance Italy

Hours: 24L

This course explores the intersection of religion, gender, and race in the literature and culture of Renaissance Italy. Between 1350 and 1650, constructs of identity based on these categorizations consolidated into cultural norms that influenced modern colonialism and contemporary nationalism. In this course, we will investigate how texts and ideas that we normally place at the core of the myth of the Italian Renaissance were always in dialogue with fantasies of power, exceptionalism, and orientalism. We will pair close reading of a wide range of literary genres (romance, dramaturgy, fiction, travelogues, political writing) with visual artifacts and archival materials. Authors to be studied include Boccaccio, Petrarch, and Ariosto.

Prerequisite: Completion of 4.0 credits
Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA340H1 - Italian Neorealist Cinema

Hours: 24L/36P

The focus of this course is the films of Italian Neorealism, one of the most influential, artistic, and intellectual movements in the history of world cinema. While emphasis will be placed primarily on the work of Roberto Rossellini, Vittorio De Sica, and Luchino Visconti, the course will also offer a detailed discussion of the historical context and of the sociopolitical issues of postwar Italy. This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience. (Given in English)

Recommended Preparation: ITA240Y1
Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA341H1 - Gender and Genre in Italian Cinema

Hours: 24L/36P

The course looks at Italian cinema from the perspective of gender and genre studies. While the focus will be primarily on film, the course will also engage with different media and discuss how these have informed and influenced Italian notions of masculinity and femininity throughout the Twentieth Century. The emphasis on genre will provide the structure to organize a discourse that will embrace very diverse and multifaceted texts, and will enable students to develop their analytical and critical skills in the field. This course includes a component designed to enhance students’ research experience. (Given in English)

Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA342H1 - Popular Italian Cinema

Hours: 24L

This course discusses the notion of the Popular as applied to Italian cinema. By focusing on the number of films that have appropriated popular international genres such as Spaghetti Westerns, Horror, and Poliziotteschi, this course will discuss Italian cinema in a global context, drawing parallels and comparisons with other national industries. Students will gain a broader understanding of Italian film culture, and will apply their critical and research skills to a wide range of texts. This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience. (Given in English)

Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA345H1 - Cinema of the Italian Diasporas

Hours: 24L/36P

This course will examine how several filmmakers of Italian descent engage with the representation of their diasporic identity. Particular emphasis will be placed on Italian-Canadian and Italian-American cinema, as well as on Italian cineastes working in Argentina, Brazil, and Australia. The course will analyze films that span from silent to contemporary, from the formation of the stereotypical images to the re-appropriation of archetypes on the part of “ethnic” filmmakers. This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience.(Given in English)

Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA348H1 - Mass Media in Italy: The European Context

Hours: 24L

This course investigates Italy's pivotal role in epochal cultural changes:  from manuscript to print and from print to computers.  The impacts of Print Technology in the Renaissance and of Electronic Technology from Marconi onward are thoroughly analyzed.  This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience. (Given in English)

Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA349H1 - Black Italian Cultural Production

Hours: 24L

This interdisciplinary course will explore the landscape of cultural production made by Italians of African descent. The course provides students with relevant historical and sociological background necessary to understand entanglements of race, gender, identity, and citizenship occurring in contemporary Italy. The analysis of cultural production includes literature, music, cinema, television, visual arts and fashion. Students read not only academic material but also short stories, novels and poems; listening to and analyzing rap, trap and hip-hop tracks; watching online exhibitions and documentaries; examining Netflix series and Instagram pages. When possible, the course will also host Italian artists and activists engaging in conversations about their work.

Prerequisite: Completion of 4.0 credits
Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

JCI350H1 - Italian Canadian Culture and Identity

Hours: 24S

This course examines the contributions of Canadians of Italian descent to arts, culture, identity and heritage in Canada, with attention to the diversity of the community with respect to issues such as language, religion, gender, class, sexuality, etc. A core concept addressed by the course is immigration, whether from the experiences of migrants themselves or later generations.

Recommended Preparation: JCI250H1/ ITA233H1
Breadth Requirements: Society and its Institutions (3)

ITA350Y1 - Language Practice

Hours: 24P/48S

For students who have completed ITA250Y1/ ITA251Y1. Discussion of problems of grammar, style, and composition. Language analysis based on readings of Italian authors. One hour a week of oral practice. This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience.

Students without the prerequisite(s) will be asked to fill out a questionnaire on their knowledge of and background in Italian.

Prerequisite: ITA250Y1/ ITA251Y1
Exclusion: ITA351Y1
Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA358Y0 - Modern Italian Culture

Hours: 24L/24T

Analysis of a selection of philosophical, artistic, musical, and literary works from the age of the Baroque to the present. The main topics of discussion include: Romanticism, Italian unification, theatre, opera, Futurism, fascism, Neorealism, regional differences, and industrialization. Field trips and viewing of movies included. This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience. (Offered in Siena only)

ITA358Y0: This course is taught in English and is open to students from other disciplines.

Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1), Society and its Institutions (3)

ITA359Y0 - Modern Italian Culture

Hours: 24L/24T

Analysis of a selection of philosophical, artistic, musical, and literary works from the age of the Baroque to the present. The main topics of discussion include: Romanticism, Italian unification, theatre, opera, Futurism, fascism, Neorealism, regional differences, and industrialization. Field trips and viewing of movies included. This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience. (Offered in Siena only)

ITA359Y0: Students who wish to petition the Department for credit towards a Specialist or Major in Italian will be required to do the readings in Italian.

Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1), Society and its Institutions (3)

ITA360H1 - Italian Linguistics

Hours: 24L

For students having a knowledge of Italian and/or Italian dialects but no background in linguistics. Concepts of general linguistics. Italy as a linguistic entity. The structure of contemporary Italian, with special regard to its sound system and grammatical categories. This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience. (Given in English)

Prerequisite: ITA250Y1/ ITA251Y1
Breadth Requirements: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

ITA363H1 - Italian Sociolinguistics

Hours: 24L

Starting with a survey of the sociolinguistic situation in Italy before Unification, this course deals with the complex relationship between regional languages and dialects on the one hand and Common Italian on the other. The recent rise of regional variants of Italian and its impact on the dialects are also discussed. This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience.

Prerequisite: ITA250Y1/ ITA251Y1
Breadth Requirements: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

ITA364H1 - Italian and Social Media

Hours: 24L

The aim of this course is to examine how media can influence the evolution of language in contemporary Italy. The first part of this course has an historical goal and will be devoted to the role played by ‘traditional’ media (television, radio, newspapers) in the linguistic history of Italian. The second part will be devoted to the impact that social media is having on Italian. Empirical quantitative research will be based on the most important databases for contemporary Italian.

Prerequisite: ITA250Y1/ ITA251Y1
Breadth Requirements: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

ITA367H1 - Topics in Italian Linguistics

Hours: 2L

An open course that explores specific aspects of Italian Linguistics. This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience. (Given in English)

Prerequisite: ITA250Y1/ ITA251Y1
Breadth Requirements: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

ITA378H1 - Topics in Italian Studies

Hours: 24L

An open course that explores specific aspects of Italian Studies. This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience. (Given in English)

Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA379H1 - Topics in Italian Studies

Hours: 24L

An open course that explores specific aspects of Italian Studies. This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience.

Prerequisite: ITA250Y1/ ITA251Y1/ ITA252Y1
Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA380H1 - The Prose of the World: The Modern Italian Novel and the Realist Tradition

Hours: 24L

This course examines the development of modern Italian novel by taking as its focus the question of the relationship between narrative and the world. The course analyzes some of the major figures of Nineteenth-Century realist tradition such as Manzoni and Verga, as well as the resurgence of realist narrative in the post-World War II period with authors such as Pavese and Calvino. This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience. (Given in English)

Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA390H1 - The Commedia dell'Arte

Hours: 24L

A study of the conventions of the Commedia dell'Arte tradition in the context of its performance history from the late Renaissance to the present. Issues examined include acting techniques, improvisation, masks and costumes, iconography and adaptation to film. This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience. (Given in English)

Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA395Y0 - Special Topics in Italian Studies

Hours: 48S

The area of concentration will depend upon the instructor teaching the course in any given year. (Offered only during the summer through the Summer Abroad Program.) Not available for CR/NCR option.

Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA398H0 - Research Excursions

An instructor-supervised group project in an off-campus setting. Details at https://www.artsci.utoronto.ca/current/academics/research-opportunities…. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.

ITA398Y0 - Research Excursions

An instructor-supervised group project in an off-campus setting. Details at https://www.artsci.utoronto.ca/current/academics/research-opportunities…. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.

ITA399Y1 - Research Opportunity Program

Credit course for supervised participation in faculty research project. Details at https://www.artsci.utoronto.ca/current/academics/research-opportunities…. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.

ITA400H1 - Machiavelli

Hours: 24S

An intensive study of Machiavelli’s major works in English translation, including his political treatises (The Prince, excerpts from The Discourses), plays (The Mandrake Root), letters, and short story (Belfagor), in the context of Renaissance Florence, the history of Machiavelli criticism, and modern ethical debates. This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience. (Given in English)

Prerequisite: Completion of 10.0 credits
Breadth Requirements: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

ITA410H1 - Masterpieces of Modern Drama

Hours: 24L

This course will study works by the major Italian playwrights of the Twentieth Century, including two of Italy’s Literature Nobel Prize winners, Luigi Pirandello and Dario Fo. Particular attention will be paid to the relationship between individual works and broader literary and cultural movements, as well as to issues regarding staging and production of the plays under discussion. The course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience.

Prerequisite: ITA250Y1/ ITA251Y1, and at least 0.5 credit in ITA literature courses at the 300-level
Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA420H1 - Spinning a Tale: The Italian Short Story from Boccaccio to Basile

Hours: 24L

The short story genre and its development from the Middle Ages to the Baroque. In addition to Boccaccio's tales, included are some of the most famous stories of Western literature, which later inspired masterpieces in all art forms, such as Romeo and Juliet, Othello and Puss in Boots. This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience.

Prerequisite: ITA250Y1/ ITA251Y1, and at least one 0.5 credit ITA literature course at the 300-level
Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA421H1 - Spinning a Tale: The Italian Short Story after 1800

Hours: 24L

Focusing on short stories by some of the most important authors of the Twentieth Century, such as Pirandello and Calvino, this course will provide an introduction to the major tendencies of contemporary Italian literature. This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience.

Prerequisite: ITA250Y1/ ITA251Y1, and at least one 0.5 credit ITA literature course at the 300-level
Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA425H1 - Special Topics in Italian Studies

Hours: 24L

A course on specific topics in Italian Studies, designed for advanced students. This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience. (Given in English)

Prerequisite: Completion of 7.0 credits
Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA426H1 - Special Topics in Italian Studies

Hours: 24L

A course on specific topics in Italian Studies, designed for advanced students. This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience.

Prerequisite: ITA250Y1/ ITA251Y1
Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA427H1 - Special Topics in Italian Linguistics

Hours: 24L

A course on specific topics in Italian Linguistics, designed for advanced students. This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience.

Prerequisite: ITA250Y1/ ITA251Y1
Breadth Requirements: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

ITA431H1 - History of Italian Language I-from Middle ages to Cinquecento

Hours: 24L

An historical overview of the Italian language from the first Medieval documents to the texts of the Questione della Lingua. It deals with historical grammar and the analyses of early Italian texts. An introduction to notions of linguistic statistics. Empirical quantitative methods are based on the three most important databases of old Italian: TLIO,OVI,BIZ. This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience.

Prerequisite: ITA250Y1/ ITA251Y1
Exclusion: ITA430H1
Breadth Requirements: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

ITA432H1 - History of Italian Language II- from Cinquecento to Contemporary

Hours: 24L

The evolution of the Italian Language from the Questione della lingua to Contemporary issues pertaining to reading of literary and non-literary documents and analyses of the social, political and economic conditions which influenced Early Modern, Modern and Contemporary Italian. Introduction to techniques pertaining to notions of linguistic statistics. Quantitative methods will be based on the three most important databases for the Early modern, Modern and Contemporary Italian: Vocabolario della Crusca (online), BaDIP and BIZ. This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience.

Prerequisite: ITA250Y1/ ITA251Y1
Breadth Requirements: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

ITA433H1 - Italian Language and Italian Dialects in Toronto

Hours: 24L

Through an historical overview of Italian immigration in Toronto, the role of Italian and Italian dialects in the city will be examined. As part of the topic studied in course, students will contribute to the website of the OIM by collecting varied forms of empirical linguistic evidence.

Prerequisite: ITA250Y1/ ITA251Y1
Breadth Requirements: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

ITA441H1 - Italian Cinematic Adaptation

Hours: 24L

An analysis of the process of adaptation in an exploration of the ideological and narratological perspectives as well as the stylistic elements of literary and cinematic discourse. Selections include novels by Verga, Tomasi di Lampedusa, Moravia, Bassani and their filmic adaptations by directors such as Visconti, De Sica, Bertolucci. This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience. (Given in English)

Recommended Preparation: One of: ITA240Y1/ ITA340H1/ ITA341H1/ ITA347H1. Knowledge of Italian recommended
Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA445H1 - Literature of the Italian Diasporas

Hours: 24L

This course examines works by writers of Italian descent, focusing on themes linked to the second-generation experience, such as intergenerational conflict, gender relations, the return journey, and the quest for identity. The comparative approach of this investigation will bring within the same framework the diasporic literatures of Canada, the United States, Argentina, Brazil, Australia, and of other countries. (Texts available in English and in their original language). This course includes a component designed to enhance students’ research experience. (Given in English)

Recommended Preparation: ITA233H1/ ITA345H1
Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA450H1 - Advanced Italian

Hours: 36S

This advanced-level course is designed to provide students with further study of the Italian language and culture with emphasis on varied methods of expression. This course will improve students' oral and written communication skills.

Prerequisite: ITA350Y1 / ITA351Y1
Exclusion: ITA451H1/ ITA452H1
Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA453H1 - At the Movies: History and Practice of Italian Film Criticism

Hours: 24S

This course will provide students with a blend of history, methodology, and practice of Italian film criticism. The first module will survey the primary trends and methodological developments in the long history of Italian film criticism, from the days of silent cinema to the most recent changes caused by online platforming. The second module will offer students the opportunity to write their own criticism, and to collaborate with Italian online film magazines. Given in Italian.

Prerequisite: At least 1.0 credit from ITA240Y1, ITA340H1, ITA341H1, or CIN courses, ( ITA350Y1/ ITA351Y1)
Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA455H1 - Women Writers in Italy

Hours: 24L

The course will focus on the writings of women in different periods of Italian history. Spanning a variety of genres, from the novel to autobiography, from poetry to essayism, the course will discuss various aspects of the debate regarding the changing roles of women in society. This course includes a component designed to enhance students' research experience.

Prerequisite: ITA250Y1/ ITA251Y1, and at least one 0.5 credit ITA literature course at the 300-level
Breadth Requirements: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

ITA460Y1 - Internship in Italian

Hours: 48P

Opportunity to apply acquired knowledge in a work placement environment. The placement will take place in local community organizations, Private Business Associations and local media.

Prerequisite: ITA350Y1/ ITA351Y1/ ITA352Y1 or ITA371Y1
Corequisite: Must be enrolled in 4th year. 3.0 CGPA required. Departmental interview.

ITA489H1 - Independent Studies

An opportunity to pursue at the 400-level an independent course of study not otherwise available. A written proposal, co-signed by the instructor, must be submitted on the appropriate proposal form for approval by the Department of Italian Studies. Application deadline: April 30 for F courses, November 30 for S courses.

Prerequisite: Permission of Department

ITA490Y1 - Independent Studies

In exceptional circumstances, students may request to pursue at the 400-level an independent course of study not otherwise available. A written proposal, co-signed by the instructor, must be submitted on the appropriate proposal form for approval by the Department of Italian Studies. Application deadline April 30.

Prerequisite: Permission of Department

ITA495H1 - Directed Research

Based on a professor’s research project currently in progress, this course will enable an undergraduate student to play a useful role in the project while receiving concrete training in research. This course is mandatory for all students enrolled in the specialist’s program.

Prerequisite: Permission of Department

ITA496H1 - Research Methods

This course, linked to the instructor’s research project, will provide training in a variety of research methods. This course includes a component designed to enhance students’ research experience.

Prerequisite: Permission of Department

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