Languages of Discrimination and Racism in Twentieth-Century Italy: Histories, Legacies and Practices

This volume explores the persistence of questions of race and racism in Italy from the liberal age to the present, examining the cultural, social, legislative, and political dynamics of discrimination. It adopts an interdisciplinary perspective and highlights the continuity and persistence of racism in Italian cultural and political discourse, as well as the shifting practices of Othering across different historical contexts.

Format: Hardback
Length: 297 pages
Publication date: 07 June 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive volume explores the enduring legacy of race and racism in Italy from the liberal era to the present, encompassing the periods of colonialism, fascism, and post-war Italy. By adopting an interdisciplinary approach, it delves into the intricate interplay of cultural, social, legislative, and political factors that have shaped discrimination in Italy's past and present. Drawing upon the expertise of historians, political scientists, sociologists, literary scholars, and cultural studies experts, the original essays compiled in this volume shed light on a remarkable continuity and persistence of racism in Italian cultural and political discourse, as well as in the representation of others. Moreover, they highlight the shifting practices of othering across different historical contexts.

The book begins by tracing the historical roots of racism in Italy, examining the legacies of colonialism and the emergence of fascism. It then delves into the mechanisms of discrimination and exclusion that have persisted throughout these periods, including laws, policies, and societal attitudes. The essays also explore the impact of these dynamics on marginalized communities, such as African Americans, Jews, and Muslims, highlighting the struggles and resilience of these groups in the face of adversity.

One of the key themes of the book is the intersectionality of race and other forms of discrimination, such as gender, class, and sexuality. The authors argue that these factors intersect to create complex and multifaceted systems of oppression and that addressing them requires a comprehensive and intersectional approach. They also highlight the role of education and social movements in challenging and transforming these systems of discrimination.

Another important aspect of the book is the examination of the cultural and political representation of others. The authors explore how stereotypes, prejudices, and biases are perpetuated through media, literature, and popular culture, and how these representations shape societal attitudes and behaviors. They also examine the ways in which marginalized communities have resisted and challenged these representations, through art, activism, and cultural production.

Throughout the volume, the authors employ a range of theoretical frameworks and methodologies, including historical analysis, sociological research, and cultural studies. They draw upon a wealth of primary sources, including government documents, academic literature, and personal narratives, to provide a rich and nuanced understanding of the persistence of race and racism in Italy.

In conclusion, this volume represents a significant contribution to the field of Italian studies and beyond. It provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of the enduring legacy of race and racism in Italy, shedding light on the complex and multifaceted factors that have shaped discrimination in the past and present. The essays offer valuable insights into the experiences of marginalized communities and the challenges they face, and they provide a roadmap for addressing these issues in the future. By promoting a deeper understanding of the intersectionality of race and other forms of discrimination, this book contributes to the ongoing struggle for social justice and equality in Italy and beyond.

Weight: 534g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030986568
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022