OVERVIEW

The course is an introduction to African studies, a field which is relatively little known in Italy. The course will offer an overview of the main stages in the evolution of this discipline and it will underline how Anthropology was the first discipline to represent Africa from Africans' point of view.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Getting acquainted with African studies, a field which is relatively little known in Italy. Having a good knowledge of these themes: stages in the theoretical evolution of this discipline; key concepts in anthropology; fundamental elements of sub-Saharan cultures (particularly ritual universes and art). Developing specific competencies within this field and being able to promote the knowledge of African cultures.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

Developing specific competencies within this field and being able to promote the knowledge of African cultures.

The course is designed to provide students with interpretative and professional skills.

PREREQUISITES

Basic knowledge of the vocabulary of anthropology and the main schools of thought within the ethno-anthropological disciplines.

TEACHING METHODS

Seminar course

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

Major themes in African Studies' research.

Africa: body cultures. The body as the first medium for aesthetic representation and as a powerful tool for self-affirmation. Social and cultural practices involving body and garments in sub-Saharan African countries. Creative use of ornaments, garments and textiles.

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Calchi Novati G., Valsecchi P., Africa: la storia ritrovata, Carocci, Roma, 2005

Parodi da Passano, G., African Power Dressing: il corpo in gioco, De Ferrari, Genova, 2015

G. Barbujani, Gli Africani siamo noi. Alle origini dell'uomo, Laterza, Roma-Bari, 2016

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

Exam Board

MARIA GIOVANNA PARODI (President)

MARCO AIME

MAURO CAROSIO

LESSONS

LESSONS START

Monday March 18, 2019

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

The exam consists of a conversation during which the candidate shall discuss the contents of the course materials and illustrate the results of a research carried out by him/her.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

Oral exam.

The exam comprises one or more general questions and one or more questions on the topics of the second module. 

Exam schedule

FURTHER INFORMATION

No additional information is provided at this stage.

The professor can be reached by email at: maria.giovanna.parodi@unige.it