HIS/POL 315: Understanding the Mediterranean
Course description
The Mediterranean has gained increasing prominence in historical and political debates, often portrayed as a conduit for issues such as migration, economic instability, and political conflict. This course challenges that narrative by examining the region’s historical development and its contemporary strategic and geopolitical significance. It begins by defining the Mediterranean as a distinct region, contrasting it with frameworks like MENA and Europe, and explores decolonization with particular attention to Italian colonialism during the Fascist era and its lasting effects. The course also engages with key contemporary issues, including the Arab Spring, migration, religion, identity, and democratization. Overall, it aims to deepen students’ understanding of the Mediterranean while enriching their experience at the SHC Italy Center and fostering a global perspective.
Learning objectives
At the end of the course, students will be able to:
Discuss the historical and political meaning of the Mediterranean
Identify the global and local actors who shaped the Mediterranean in the past, and could bring positive change to this area today
Appraise Italy’s colonial past, as well as the country’s Mediterranean policies, in the broader context of foreign and international affairs
Analyse the aims, achievements and failures of Italian political and economic relations with Mediterranean countries at different historical times
Debate recent events in the Mediterranean and the MENA region (the Arab Spring, migration to Europe, identity and religion debates), critically engaging with their historical causes, political context, and potential outcomes