Learning objectives
Knowledge and understanding: knowledge of an historical outline of the course content, of the concept of popular/juvenile reader in the given context, and of the features of the related texts.
Applying knowledge and understanding: being able to explain some texts of the given period, using simple pedagogical-literary tools, and to reflect on their possible educational use.
Making judgements: being able to express opinions with due motivation: this is the main transversal goal of the course.
Communication skills: Ability to explain one's own work in reading and interpretating texts with a correct and appropriate language.
Learning skills: being able to reflect critically on one's own knowledge, in proportion with individual talents.
Prerequisites
None.
Course unit content
Rewriting and adapting the classics for young readers: a case study on "The Prince and the Pauper" by Mark Twain in Italy
Full programme
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Bibliography
Students will be required to read four books and some articles and papers.
1) Original source:
- Mark Twain, Il Principe e il Povero, editore Mattioli1885, 2021.
Non-native Italian speakers are allowed to read the novel in the original American English version. Please bring with you the book at the exam session.
2-3) Historical adaptations:
- Principe e mendico. Romanzo di Mark Twain narrato da Marino Moretti, Utet, La Scala d'Oro, 1936 (available on the Elly platform)
- Il Principe e il Povero, a cura di Clara Bartolozzi Smorti, Vallecchi 1968 (available on the Elly platform)
4) Contemporary adaptations:
- An adaptation of the same novel for young readers published between 1970-2021 at the students' choice. Regular novels, but also graphic novels, comics etc.. are accepted.
Further readings: forthcoming on the Elly platform.
Teaching methods
Lecture; classroom reading with comments; debate in the classroom; close reading training on selected texts.
Assessment methods and criteria
Oral examination.
The passing mark is achieved if the students shows both these accomplishments:
a) Has read thoroughly the compulsory texts and is able to locate them in time and space;
b) Has reflected upon the educational problems/questions posited in the texts and has tried to give a personal interpretation.
Other information
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