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Elena Bergia, BA, MSc, PhD

Fee £50.00 (concession rate £40.00) - fee will amend when you select the appropriate fee rate below.

Autumn 2026

5 weekly sessions on Thursdays, 5.00 pm to 7.00 pm, starting 1 October

What do we see when we think about Italy? Historic cities, beautiful beaches, sunshine, La Dolce Vita? What do we know about less touristy corners and the intricacies of life in busy cities or deserted landscapes? We are all familiar with the Italy advertised by travel companies. Yet this enigmatic country has been depicted also by Italian filmmakers, songwriters, and writers more interested in the interplay of light and darkness than in the postcard image of the holiday country. In this course, we will examine how different regions and cities across Italy have been portrayed through song, film, and creative writing. We will reflect on “The great sun-kissed days,” as one song goes, without overlooking the foggy “anguish of an endless plain,” to cite another. Ultimately, artistic expression will reveal a country of striking beauty and profound contradictions.

This class will take place on QUB campus

Support Requirements

If as a result of your disability you have support requirements, please complete a support needs form and return it 3 weeks before your class commences. The form is available to download here under the Facilities and Support for Disabled Students section or contact the office on 90 973323.

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