Valentina Morello (University of Arkansas-Fayetteville)
Irene Hatzopoulos (University of California, Riverside)
The Italian
South has long been perceived through the lens of its developmental lag in
comparison to the industrialized North, a view solidified during the
post-unification period. This "Southern Question," traditionally tied
to agrarian concerns, has emphasized the need for a productive alliance between
the Southern peasants and the Northern workers to bridge the industrial gap.
However, the contemporary "Meridian Thought" challenges this
narrative, advocating for the intrinsic value of the South beyond its
comparison to the North. It rejects the pursuit of industrialization to emulate
the North, promoting instead a celebration of lentezza and the
appreciation of regional and Southern diversities. This reevaluation encourages
a multiplicity of experiences over the singularity of a homogenized thought.
Considering this paradigm shift, the proposed panel will explore the Southern (R)evolution in Italian, literature, and media. It will delve into themes of transformation, examining how the South's identity is reshaped; adaptation, observing the South's response to global changes; migration/immigration, discussing the migratory movements that define and redefine the region (towards new regions, Countries and the more recently arrival of migrants towards southern Italy; environment/agriculture, highlighting the unique ecological and agrarian practices; minority communities, acknowledging the diverse cultures within the South; subalternity, giving voice to the marginalized; and Cultural segregation.
Through these lenses, the proposed panel aims to contribute to a nuanced understanding of the Italian South, advocating for a recognition of its distinct cultural contributions and challenging the monolithic narratives that have historically marginalized it.
Please submit an abstract of 300 words max to the NeMLA portal. For questions, please contact Valentina Morello (vmorello@uark.edu)