Reading and composition course based on works by Italians and foreigners about Italy and its culture and by Italians about their distinctive experiences of other cultures as tourists and emigrants. Works studied will be primarily chosen from among fiction and non fiction narratives, both originally in English and translated into it. R5A satisfies the first half of the Reading and Composition Requirement and R5B satisfies the second half.

What does it mean to think “rationally” and without feeling? Does language coded as “objective” guarantee dissociation from the emotional realm? This class explores what has long been considered a neat-and-tidy distinction between reason and emotion, investigating how “negative” feelings and stereotypes have historically made their way into the rational world of science. Our site of investigation will be the Italian cultural landscape from the late-nineteenth century to the present, where we will practice reading scientific and non-literary texts alongside the fictional works that dominated their historical moment. These comparative readings will ask us to consider the relationship between language and the body: how do myths of gender, sexuality, and race—concepts fabricated in fictional worlds—become enshrined as indisputable scientific “fact”? As we navigate written works varying in form and language, weekly reflections will ask us to critically examine the boundaries between science and the social, as well as what (and who) we grant authority to function as our sources of knowledge. This course is designed to fulfill the second half of the Reading and Composition requirement. As a writing-intensive course, our goal will be to strengthen our close reading and critical writing skills, including the evaluation of secondary sources and criticism. Assignments will include personal reflections, short blog posts, and peer review exercises, culminating in the production of a research paper. Works will include, but are not limited to: Scientific writings by Cesare Lombroso and Alfredo Niceforo Ugo Tarchetti, Fosca Leonardo Sciascia, The Day of the Owl Angela and Luciana Giussani’s comic series, Diabolik Giuliano Montaldo’s film The Gold Rimmed Glasses (1987) Antonio Tabucchi, Indian Nocturne

Requisites

• Previously passed an R_A course with a letter grade of C- or better. Previously passed an articulated R_A course with a letter grade of C- or better. Score a 4 on the Advanced Placement Exam in English Literature. Score a 4 or 5 on the Advanced Placement Exam in English Language and Composition. Score of 5, 6, or 7 on the International Baccalaureate Higher Level Examination in English.

Repeat Rules

Course is not repeatable for credit.

Requirements class fulfills