This course will introduce students to Italian literature of the twentieth century using the theory of the avant-garde as a critical jumping-off point from which to study the movements within and the various resistances to Italian literary tradition that marked this turbulent period.

To accentuate the stylistic and formal qualities of avant-garde literature, students will have the chance to choose between two different texts representing some of the movements that we will examine.

This will enhance in-class discussions and provide the opportunity to have a deeper understanding of the greater complexities of literary movements as a whole.