Sicily: Cult., Lang., Identity

3 Credits · Level: Graduate, Undergraduate

The island of Sicily has always exerted and continues to exert a special attraction not only for tourists but for art historians, linguists, literary scholars and political scientists because of its unique historical and geographical characteristics. From ancient Greek and Roman influences to Norman, Arab, and Spanish legacies, Sicily’s unique position at the crossroads of the Mediterranean has shaped its language, customs, and identity in unique ways making it both part of Italy and separate from it. Sicily bears the signs of all the civilizations that have conquered it while also offering its unique blend of these influences. The objective of this course is to offer an in-depth exploration of the rich linguistic and cultural tapestry of Sicily. We will briefly explore the historical development of the island with the different dominations that have characterized it, and then we will focus on how the island has been presented in some literary texts, in film and in the visual arts. Particular focus will be placed on Sicilian as a regional language, its place within Italian dialectology, and how it interacts with Italy’s standard variety. Students will also examine some of the vibrant cultural expressions of Sicily, including its folklore, cuisine, festivals, and its most significant social challenges such as the continuing influence of the Mafia, the recent migratory flows and the linguistic and cultural issues that they have raised. The course is taught in English.