Department of French and Italian

Joint-offered with MSCH-F398 and EURO-W406

This course explores how gender and sexuality have been constructed and used in films about Italian organized crime, both in Italian and Italian American contexts.  In particular, students will study women’s roles and representations in mafia stories in real-life and on screen, from the time of the Italian Unification to the present.  Through various socio-historical and psychological lenses, students will evaluate  filmmakers’ ideological perspectives as well as the crucial roles women have played in the largely patriarchal and male-dominant framework of mafia and anti-mafia activities. No previous knowledge of Italian or film studies is necessary. The tools and vocabulary to work closely with Italian cultural materials and with film will be provided as needed.  Taught in English.

• A&H
• GCC
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