Learning objectives
To develop a critical conscience in relation to the evolution of literary genres and contemporary tastes and sensibilities. <br />
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Prerequisites
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Course unit content
Camp! Spectacular imagination and subversion of dominant genres. <br />
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The recent publication of the rich anthology of PopCamp (edited by Fabio Cleto) provides an opportunity to focus on the future of literary and, in a broader sense, artistic genres. The ‘camp’ category, which is mainly linked to gay culture and vocabulary, is central to the interpretation of art and contemporary states as it profoundly permeates romantic novels, melodrama, picaresque fiction and twentieth century cinema. The course will try to tie this disintegrating whirlpool to the two main effects of ‘camp’ in both literature and the arts: the reproduction and dissolution of the literary genre system and the discussion of gender. The contribution of elements of social criticism (Arbasino), of generational influence (Tondelli, Hollinghurst) and of unbridled reworking of reality (Salas, the films of Almodóvar, Haynes, and Ozon) will also be explored. <br />
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Full programme
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Bibliography
1) PopCamp, edited by F. Cleto, Marcos y Marcos 2008, 2 vol. (the obligatory chapters will be indicated during lectures). <br />
2) A. Arbasino, L’Anonimo lombardo, Adelphi. <br />
3) P.V. Tondelli, Altri libertini, Feltrinelli. <br />
4) A. Hollinghurst, La biblioteca della piscina, Mondadori. <br />
5) R. Salas, Gelati di passione, Voland. <br />
NB: The filmography of reference will be given during lectures. <br />
Teaching methods
Lectures <br />
Seminar activities <br />
Attendance at seminar study days <br />
Editing of an essay <br />
Final oral exam <br />
Assessment methods and criteria
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Other information
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