Topics in Italian Culture and Literature (349-0-20)
Topic
Food, Territory, Inclusivity
Instructors
Carla Lunghi
Meeting Info
Kresge Centennial Hall 2-339: Tues, Thurs 2:00PM - 3:20PM
Overview of class
Taught by Distinguished Fulbright Chair in Italian Studies, Professor Carla Lunghi.
Practices related to food have always condensed multiple cultural and social values, that have only recently become a specific object of social sciences studies.
The course will analyze, from a cultural point of view:
• the evolution of food tastes and the different culinary traditions in Italy
• the history of some foods, which have become a symbol of Italian taste and style in the world
• some innovative production experiences in which food becomes:
- an opportunity for the inclusion of disadvantaged people (as in the case of food and wine products from some Italian prisons; social cooperatives with disabled people, etc.),
- a form of redemption in areas burdened by heavy social problems (for example cooperatives that work territories confiscated from the mafias; companies that recover traditional local products as a barrier to emigration and youth unemployment)
- a space to experience cultural intersections between past and present, native and foreign cultures, and Italian and migrant workers.
In particular, the last point will be illustrated through case studies - innovative start-ups, social cooperatives, and traditional brands - located throughout the country.
Class Notes
Taught in Italian.