This course approaches cultural production in Italy and the U.S., on screen and on the page since the post-war period, through the lens of the family—arguably one of the most central, guiding structures (and/or specters) of our lives.

How do family structures interact with social change? How do they serve to protect marginalized groups and their histories? How and why are some family structures vigorously defended and others jeopardized? In Italy, how has greater loyalty to family served to impede the full-scale commodification of the social sphere? How do ‘traditional values,’ on the other hand, preserve gender oppression? How do stereotypical, familial roles or functions entrap people? Indeed, how do societal expectations shape lives and experiences, and what are the consequences? What might alternative, speculative, and/or queer models of kinship look like?

Among the texts we will consider as a class are: Elena Ferrante’s The Days of Abandonment, Toni Morrison’s Beloved, Alba De Cespedes’ Forbidden Book, and Maggie Nelson’s The Argonauts. Films may include Pier Paolo Pasolini’s Mamma Roma, Michelangelo Antonioni’s Red Desert, Luca Guadagnino’s I Am Love, and Barry Jenkins’ Moonlight. We will also read selections from relevant literary and film criticism and other scholarly texts.

This writing-intensive course fulfills the second half of the Reading and Composition requirement. We will hone our skills in close reading, critical thinking and research, peer review, and clear, effective writing to craft compelling literary essays. Assignments will include weekly writing exercises and reading responses, several papers of varying length, and one more substantial research paper. All readings are in English and students from all majors are welcome.

This course satisfies the second half or the “B” portion of the Reading and Composition requirement.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of the “A” portion of the Reading & Composition requirement or its equivalent. Students may not enroll in nor attend R1B/R5B courses without completing this prerequisite.

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.