Study Abroad in Italy: Courses
HST 310 (3 credits)
Medieval and Early Renaissance Italy
The structure and evolution of political, social and cultural life in
Italy is examined. Particular attention is paid to the political and
spiritual role of the church. The activities of the five city-states, Florence,
Venice, Milan, Rome and Naples, are also viewed against the background of
the peninsula as a whole.
Three semester credits are recommended for coursework on this program consisting of approximately 30 hours of formal class work and 50 hours of field trips.
The course provides a general introduction to the Italian contribution to world culture and civilization and demonstrates the history and regionalism of the country as a prime source of influence on western civilization.
The program begins in Rome, after a 2-night stay in London and visit to the National Gallery. The course explores Rome as a capital city, the role of the Vatican State and the relationship between Church and State. The symbolism of religious art in medieval times forms part of the course.
The tour then travels to the region of Campania. Naples, the alleged capital of the mezzogiorno is reviewed as a major city of historical and cultural importance. As the program moves out of the mezzogiorno region to Tuscany, the role of the Medici family and the contribution of Machiavelli to political thought is studied, as well as the later contribution of Michelangelo.
The program moves to Northern Italy to review the role of majestic Venice and her historical and strategic position within Italy, as well as the social and religious customs.
The program concludes in industrial Milan by examining its role as one of the main five states in the Italian peninsula. The course concludes with an overview of the academic program.
Students are responsible for reading and analyzing assigned material after the related topics have been explained. To meet the requirements for three semester credits, students must submit a 2,000-word special topics paper together with in-course tests and papers.
The program leader is a specialist in Italian history and culture, and Richmond University issues all transcripts. Students must write to the Registrar of the University if they want transcripts sent to the U.S. Further information will be provided during the program.
Lectures enhance and make the site visits more meaningful and, by providing an overview, enable students to select areas or topics of special interest for more extensive research. Attendance at lectures and site visits is mandatory.
Recommended reading
The New Italians, by Charles Richards, The Dark Heart of Italy, by Tobias Jones (chapter 1), The Italians: History, Art and the Genius of a People, ed. by John J Norwich, Italian Cultural Studies: An Introduction, by David Forgacs and Robert Lumley and The Story of Art, by E.H Gombrich.
