Italian Culture Courses

COURSES IN ITALIAN CULTURE

These courses are held in the afternoons (Monday-Friday) and normally require a minimum of 3 students. Courses consist of 5, 8 or 10 hours of instruction, with lessons of 2 1/2 hours each. In case of an 8 hour course, one of the three lessons will be of three hours.

The cultural topics proposed change every month. These courses are aimed at giving students a wider outline of Italian culture in the fields of literature, history, sociology and politics, art and tradition. Examples:

History of the Italian Language

Examination of the birth and development of the Italian language from the first post-Latin writings to the most recent evolutions. The “fathers of the Italian language”: Dante, Petrarch, Boccaccio and Manzoni. The Italian dialects and the relationship between Italian and other languages. Duration: 2 weeks (10 hours) It is also possible to offer an 8 hour course with a reduced program.

Art History

This course covers art and society between 1350 and 1500, with particular reference to the city of Florence. Lessons are illustrated by slides and guided tours are organized. Duration: 2 weeks (10 hours) It is also possible to offer a 5 hour course with a reduced program.

Literature and Poetry

Generally monographic courses focusing on a work, an author or an historical period. Duration: 1 week (5 hours)

History

The topics covered range from Florence under the Medici family to the history of contemporary Italy. Duration: 1 week (5 hours)

Introduction to the Italian Opera

A summary presentation of the great arias that are part of the history of the Italian Opera. Listening to selections and reading of the librettos. Duration: 1 week (5 hours)

Cooking

Offered through a highly-recommended Florentine cooking school, these courses usually take place on Mondays and Thursdays at 6.30 p.m. with a maximum of 24 people. This is an active participation course. Recipes include handmade pasta (noodles, green noodles, “gnocchi”, “lasagne”, “tortelli”); second dishes such as Parmigiana and desserts such as tiramisù and crème caramel.

Tourism (Groups)

These are aimed at groups coming from abroad who wish not only to study Italian, but also to discover the historic, artistic and natural treasures of the city of Florence and of Tuscany. Guided tours and outings are agreed upon with the group, and prices are reduced.

For price estimates, please contact the Secretariat.