SCIENZE POLITICHE

Besides analyzing some of the main grammar and morphosyntactic structures of the English language, the course focuses on the diversity and richness of Anglo-American cultures through literature and its authors. A selection of literary works written between the nineteenth and twentieth centuries will be read and discussed in class. Special attention will be given to their formal and rhetorical characteristics as well as their historical, social, and political legacy. By promoting active participation in class, the adopted teaching method aims at improving overall language proficiency, including the ability to engage in open discussion.

The course is divided into four modules: the first module (“Focus on English Grammar”) deals with some of the main grammar and morphosyntactic structures of the English language. The other three modules (respectively titled “19th Century American Short Stories,” “20th Century American Short Stories (Part 1),” and “20th Century American Short Stories (Part 2)”) offer an introduction to the diversity of American culture through short stories and their writers.

At the end of the course, students will be able to analyze the chronological and historical development of the American short story through come of its most representative authors. Moreover, they will familiarize with the act of analyzing and interpreting short stories through appropriate theoretical and methodological frameworks, acknowledging alternative interpretations and developing critical thinking. Finally, students will experience how literary and cultural texts can transform one’s perception and understanding of self, other and communities.