Mangia! Flavors of Italy

Catalog description

The expression "Mangia, mangia!" is commonly associated with American stereotypes of Italians. But is the perceived Italian love of food the same in the United States and in Italy? Is it an issue of quantity or quality? Of socio-economics, politics, or education? Is it global, local or both? In this interdisciplinary course, we will explore the role of food in Italian culture and in the shaping of Italian identity, in Italy and abroad. We will trace its evolution through a variety of texts: literature, works of art, music, and film, as well as family recipes. Guest lectures made by Italian chefs in Philadelphia, food tastings, and a visit to the Italian Market, will enrich the course.