Course of Study

   
The SPOLETO STUDY ABROAD Summer Sessions are based on the study of ideas and cultures.  Specifically, students explore the philosophical ideas developed during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, Italian history and literature, as well as contemporary Italian culture and society through two courses:  Arts and Ideas and Italian.
 
Mornings are filled with four structured courses.  All students are enrolled in Arts & Ideas and Italian.  The remaining two classes are selected from a list of courses that compliment the student's area of specialty.  Examples of these courses are:  Italian Renaissance Art and Architecture, History of Italian Opera, Photography, Visual Arts Workshop. These classes are from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.

 
During the afternoon, students focus on their area of specialty. These areas include Photography, Visual Arts, Vocal Music, Film or Instrumental/Chamber Music. This time is spent in the studio, in a seminar or a rehearsal.  Excursions to historically and artistically rich cities such as Siena, Florence, Urbino, Assisi, and Orvieto are scheduled twice a week.  These excursions reinforce the material covered in the classroom.
Arts and Ideas
 
This course examines the world of the medieval and renaissance thinker and how the ideas of the time were reflected in contemporary literature and the fine arts. Readings include excerpts by artists, writers, poets, historians, and philosophers from the two periods. Students share in class their reactions to the readings and to the class-related excursions and create reflective compositions. Discussions revolve around the philosophical, practical, and personal dimensions of the works studied.

Italian
This course provides a lively, hands-on introduction to the Italian language and culture. Students gain an understanding of basic Italian grammar and vocabulary, with particular attention given to phrases that will be useful during their time in Italy. In addition to learning about language, students are exposed to a variety of contemporary subjects, including Italian cinema, literature, folklore, and artistic trends. This course helps students to feel comfortable in their surroundings and gives them insight into the vibrant Italian society.
 
     

 

SPOLETO STUDY ABROAD  PO Box 13389  Charleston, SC  29422  843-822-1248  SPOLETO@mindspring.com