IT209: Italian Narrative and Poetry in the Nineteenth Century

Module Provider:

Italian

Number of credits:

20 [10 ECTS credits]

Level:

I (Intermediate)

Terms in which taught:

Autumn and Spring

Module Convenor:

Dr D La Penna

Pre-requisites:

IT1001 or IT1003

Co-requisites:

Modules excluded:

Module version for:

2006/7

Aims:
This module aims to analyse the work of major literary figures in the Italian literature of the nineteenth century both in the field of lyric poetry, where Italian writers were able to draw on a very strong and distinguished Italian tradition and an established linguistic corpus, and in the field of prose narrative, which involved adopting and adapting foreign models and creating a virtually new language. The module will concentrate in particular on the work of Manzoni and Verga, the two most representative novelists of the period and on Leopardi, one of the major thinkers of the Italian Romantic movement and the greatest Italian poet since the Renaissance.

Assessable learning outcomes:
Students will develop their research and writing skills as well as their ability to analyse literary texts and to assess literary interpretation.

Additional outcomes:
This module also aims to encourage the development of independent thinking and arguing, both orally and in writing. Students may develop their IT skills by conducting Web searches for materials relevant to the module and by submitting word-processed essays.

Outline content:
The content is outlined both chronologically and thematically. In the Autumn Term students will study Manzoni's I Promessi Sposi and Verga's Malavoglia and some of his short stories. Particular attention will be devoted to the issues involved in the development of the novel as a genre in the Italian cultural and social context of the nineteenth century and to the language used by both authors. In the Spring Term they will study Leopardi's poetry and some of his philosophical prose writings, notably his satirical essays collected in the Operette Morali.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
The module will be taught through a combination of formal lectures and one-hour long seminars for which students will carry out preparatory reading. Seminars will be delivered in a structured group discussion.

Contact hours:

Assessment:
Coursework:
Students will write two essays of 2,000-3,000 words. The average of the two essays will form the student's assessment mark. This mark will be subject to scrutiny by a second internal examiner and by the external examiner where relevant.
Relative percentage of coursework : 50%
Examinations:
One two-hour paper which will count for 50% of the mark for the module.
Requirements for a pass:
A mark of 40% overall
Reassessment arrangements:
Students who fail the whole module will be re-examined in September. Coursework will be carried forward if it bears a mark of 40% or more. Otherwise it must be submitted by 1 September, and will be eligible for a mark of no higher than 40%.