Do you want to discover Italian culture through its history, arts, literature, civilization, cinema or gastronomy? Why don’t you apply for our language courses.
Prerequisites: intermediate level (B1) minimum.
For the Spring session from September 22nd to December 8th, 2026, we offer 2 culture courses :
- The Short Form in Italian Literature – 24 hours
Through a journey dedicated to Italian narrative, this course offers an exploration and analysis of various short forms: the novella, the short story, the fable, the standalone tale, as well as stories embedded within novels. Based on the studied texts, we will explore the specific characteristics of each literary genre, while highlighting their evolution and transformations over time. Each session will be divided into two parts: a presentation of the work by the instructor, followed by a collective analysis of an excerpt. Designed as an introduction to Italian literature, this course requires no prior knowledge of literature or literary theory. However, an intermediate level (B1) in Italian is recommended to encourage fluid discussions in class.
Period: September 22nd → December 8th, 2026
Frequency: Monday from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.; in person
By Samuele Ellena
Samuele Ellena is a PhD candidate in the Department of Literatures and World Languages at the Université de Montréal. In his research, he focuses on marginality as a distinct space from which to disrupt established social imaginaries. Additionally, he teaches Italian literature and language
- “Once Upon a Time in the Spaghetti Western”: Complexity, Politics, and the Reinvention of a Genre – 24 hours
This course examines the “Spaghetti Western” not as a “minor” genre or a degraded imitation of the American model, but rather as a laboratory for formal and political reinvention that, in just over a decade (1964–1978), reshaped the global cinematic landscape. Divided into four modules, the course explores its cultural roots, Sergio Leone’s aesthetic revolution, its political and metaphysical developments, as well as its comic and parodic subversions. Ultimately, it demonstrates how the Italian Western offered a unique vantage point on the transformations of post-economic boom Italy: the crisis of masculinity, the relationship with History, violence as a language, and the popular body.
Period: September 22nd → December 8th, 2026
Frequency: Tuesday from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.; on ZOOM
By Roberto Viviani
After earning both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Law from the University of Macerata, he completed his studies in Philosophy at the Université de Montréal in 2022. A specialist in Pasolini, he is currently pursuing a PhD in Italian Studies at McGill University.
For further information consult our brochure.
To register.