Though often pictured as a space separating the three continents which frame it, the Mediterranean is widely regarded as a region of rich cultural exchange and ethnic diversity. In this course, we read works of literature that allow us to discover both the conflictual aspects of the divide, and the sense that crossing the Mediterranean can be a transformative and life-changing experience. We examine how the Mediterranean has reshaped Italian culture as well as how Italy’s position within the Mediterranean makes the peninsula into a key location for the circulation of goods, people and ideas between Europe, Asia and Africa. All our course texts call into question familiar ideas about national cultures, gendered and religious identities. Texts include works of medieval and Renaissance literature that explore the Mediterranean world as well as modern works of literature that are fictional, historical, theoretical and investigative. Course objectives include the ability to analyze the theme of identity and conflict across a variety of genres and within a trans-historical perspective as well as a greater mastery of critical writing. This is a writing intensive course in which peer review plays an important role.

Giovanni Boccaccio, The Decameron

Torquato Tasso, Jerusalem Delivered

Isabelle Eberhardt, The Nomad

Natalie Zemon Davis, Trickster Travels

Amara Lakhous, Divorce, Islamic Style

Michael Ondatje, The English Patient

Edward Said, Orientalism

With the Bride (film).

Loretta Napoleoni, Merchants of Men

Due to the high demand for R&C courses we monitor attendance very carefully. Attendance is mandatory the first two weeks of classes, this includes all enrolled and wait listed students. If you do not attend all classes the first two weeks you may be dropped. If you are attempting to add into this class during weeks 1 and 2 and did not attend the first day, you will be expected to attend all class meetings thereafter and, if space permits, you may be enrolled from the wait list.