The course analyses the dynamics that have determined urban and environmental transformations over time. In particular, it focuses on the mutual influences between mankind and the rest of nature, the latter intended as an active subject with which men relate. The evolution of society and of the environment and their transformations will be seen with regard not only to the Italian context, but also to the European and global context.
Attending students:
Lectures, seminars and materials uploaded on Moodle. Additionally, attending students will have to make a short presentation in the second part of the semester.
Non-attending students:
Corona G., Breve Storia dell’Ambiente in Italia, Bologna, Il Mulino, 2015
McNeill J.R., Qualcosa di nuovo sotto il sole. Storia dell’ambiente nel XX secolo, Torino, Einaudi, 2020
Learning Objectives
ACQUIRED KNOWLEDGE:
Understanding of the urban and environmental transformations throughout history, with particular reference to the period following the first industrial revolution.
ACQUIRED SKILLS:
Ability to critically analyse the relationship and the mutual influences between mankind, cities and environment in an historical perspective.
Prerequisites
None
Teaching Methods
Lectures and seminars
Type of Assessment
Written exam:
2 open questions
1 hour
Course program
Definition of urban history and of environmental history and their relationship with other disciplines. The transformations of the environment over time and the way in which they have changed society. Socio-economic changes and the way in which they have modified the environment (industrialization, urbanization, etc.).
Particular focus will be devoted to the industrialisation process, to the use of fossil fuels and to the age of mass consumption, all factors that have altered the environment.