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Italian Renaissance
ITAL 116

Course Information

Description

The course studies the historical period that, on the one hand, invented modern politics, art, and science and, on the other, an awareness of origins and respect for traditions.

Was it better for a prince to be loved or feared? What did a young woman have to do to become a saint? Why did men start wearing beards? How long was an hour? Italian Renaissance explores the rich intersection between new and classical ideas, emerging and established practices in early modern Italy, a place and time where innovation clashed with tradition and the disenchantment of the world with the rediscovery of ancient enchantments. Topics covered include perspective, fashion, anatomy, pornography, astronomy, politics, virtue ethics, and codes of conduct.

Course Notes

Taught in English. Interested students will be able to attend a section in Italian.

School Faculty of Arts & Sciences
Credits 4
Cross Reg

Available for Harvard Cross Registration

Course Component Lecture
Subject Italian
Grading Basis FAS Letter Graded
Exam/Final Deadline Dec. 14, 2026
General Education N/A
Quantitative Reasoning with Data N/A
Divisional Distribution Arts and Humanities
Course Level For Undergraduate and Graduate Students