Postmodernism

3 units

This course explores the complex significance of Italian Postmodernism through an examination of the theoretical arguments and literary works that have shaped the cultural and political debate of the past fifty years. Students will study, among others, the critical theories of open work (Umberto Eco), literature as lie (Manganelli), and weak thought (Gianni Vattimo) that developed from the neo-avant-garde movement of the 1960s. Analysis will focus on the novels of four authors who have had a defining influence on Italian postmodern thought and narrative forms: Carlo Emilio Gadda, Italo Calvino, Luigi Malerba, and Umberto Eco. Course conducted in English; Italian majors read in Italian, others in English translation. Prereq for Italian majors: Ital 307D, or permission of instructor.