131-273 'La Serenissima': The Myth of Venice

Special entry conditions apply. Itinerary and travel arrangements available from Australians Studying Abroad. Prospective students must register with ASA prior to approval of enrolments at http://www.asatravinfo.com.au. The subject dates and HECS/course fee census date for this subject change each year. Check your enrolment record for the correct census date for this subject.

Fifty points of first year from any area within the Faculty of Arts

Students enrolled in this subject need to enrol concurrently in either 116-226 Beginners Italian: Study Abroad or 116-228 The Story of Italian: Study Abroad.

This intensive four-week study abroad subject will be taught in Venice and examines in detail the many aspects of the so-called 'Myth of Venice'. The rulers of Venice in the Renaissance self-consciously fashioned their city's image and institutions as representative of the most stable and serene government in Europe. Students will examine the extensive historiography of this 'myth', the role of print media in its transmission, as well as its expression in the rituals, art and literature of the city. Students will also examine the darker consequences of prioritising stability in Venetian society including expansion onto the 'terrafirma', the Jewish ghetto, and the infamous Officers of the Night. Students will complete this subject with a deeper understanding of cultures other than their own and of ways of interpreting the past utilising a range of media.

• demonstrate research skills through competent use of the library and other information sources;

• show critical thinking and analysis through recommended reading, essay writing and tutorial discussion, and by determining the strength of an argument;

• demonstrate understanding of social, ethical and cultural contexts;

• demonstrate international awareness and openness to the world;

• show awareness of new aspects of Italian culture;

• demonstrate skills in public speaking and confidence in self-expression through seminar participation and class presentations

A seminar presentation (15%) during the intensive, a journal 1,500 words (20%) due at the end of the intensive, and one research essay 2,500 words (65%) due at the end of semester one 2008.

A subject reader will be available from the Bookroom 3 weeks before the beginning of the overseas intensive