This seminar examines the twenty years during which the fascist regime held power in Italy. The course focuses on the socio-cultural meanings and contexts of fascism, as well as the fascist regime's use of "culture" and cultural forms. How did everyday Italian men and women experience fascism? In what ways and with what success did the regime employ traditional symbols and rituals, as well as create new ones? How did the state intervene into the realms of work, leisure and family? What is the relationship between avant-garde art (particularly Futurism and Modernism) and fascism? What kinds of identities (in terms of class, gender, nationality, and race) were formed and/or salient during the fascist era? These are the kinds of questions asked by a new generation of scholars (social and cultural historians, anthropologists, literary theorists, art historians, demographers) who have transformed our understandings of life under the Italian fascist regime. Students will evaluate various scholars' answers to these new questions not only for what they illuminate about the fascist period but also for what they reveal about the contested legacy of fascism. In what ways has the fascist period been interpreted and for what political uses?

Intended Audience:

Though background knowledge of Italy is not required, it is helpful.

Class Format:

Class format is discussion seminar. Instructor will offer occasional short lectures.