Screening the Past: History in the Movies

4.0 credits

Cinema is a medium that is apt to put the past on its screen. In this course, students will explore a range of films for their depictions of famous historical figures, events and periods. It will provide a sample of national cinemas and genres, such as the biopic, period film and war film, to track how directors represent history and what the medium allows to carry out their works. Students will watch some of the most renowned historical films, including Caravaggio, Maurice, Hiroshima mon amour and Life is Beautiful. Our discussions will address many topics, such as the artist’s life, Edwardian England, homosexuality and World War II. Readings and films in English.