Join us for an exciting study tour of Italy. For eleven days over spring break (March 5-15, 2009) we will visit Rome, Pompeii and the island of Sicily. But this will be much more than a tour of beautiful sights and famous places.
The first half of spring semester 2009 we will hold weekly classes to learn and prepare for the tour. Then, over spring break, we will travel to Italy as a class. Starting our tour in Rome and moving south we will explore the environs that gave birth to western civilization and understand how it shapes our world today. All the while we will enjoy the exquisite beauty and delightful culture of modern Italy.
Each professor will apply their special expertise to help you develop an intellectual context for your travel experiences. Professor Joseph Kunkel’s students will be introduced to the political ideals of ancient Rome and understand how local rivalries and foreign conquests delayed Italian unification until the modern era. This political background is important for understanding our western political tradition and the reality of modern Italy. Professor Suzanne Bunkers (English) will help you appreciate timeless literary contributions by Italian authors, past and present, along with modern literary works set in Rome, Pompeii, Naples, and Sicily. Both professors and their classes will spend time together preparing for travel and sharing their learning and expectations. Both will join you in learning about the art, architecture and culture through the centuries.
In Italy, in addition to expert guided tours, you will have free time to explore of Italy’s beautiful museums, churches, piazzas, and other landmarks as well as opportunities for shopping and dining.
