Basics of Italian literature for Italian learners

Italian literature is a fascinating journey through centuries of culture, art, and thought. From the early medieval period to modern times, it reflects the soul of Italy and its people.

Regardless of your Italian level, knowing about the different periods of Italian literature, key authors like Dante and Petrarca, and some of the poetic forms that define Italian art can make your learning experience even more enriching.

Let’s dive into the essentials of Italian literature and discover why it’s such an important part of the Italian identity!

Key periods in Italian literature

1. Medieval Period (8th – 14th century)
   • This era marked the birth of Italian literature, with Latin still dominant but emerging vernacular (early Italian) starting to take shape. Works of chivalry, religious texts, and poetry were popular.
   • Notable work: The Divine Comedy by Dante Alighieri, one of the most famous works of world literature.
     
2. Renaissance (14th – 17th century)
   • The Renaissance was a cultural movement that saw a revival of classical Greek and Roman ideas. This period was marked by an explosion of creativity in literature, art, and philosophy.
   • Notable authors: Francesco Petrarca (Petrarch), the father of humanism and renowned for his love poetry, and Ludovico Ariosto, known for Orlando Furioso.
     
3. Baroque and enlightenment (17th – 18th century)
   • Baroque literature was marked by complexity and grandeur, while the Enlightenment introduced more rational thought and political themes.
   • Notable authors: Torquato Tasso, known for Jerusalem Delivered, and Carlo Goldoni, who wrote comedies that reflected social change.
     
4. Romanticism and risorgimento (19th century)
   • Romanticism in Italy was tied to the Risorgimento, the movement for Italian unification. Literature during this time focused on national identity, passion, and emotions.
   • Notable authors: Alessandro Manzoni, author of The Betrothed (I Promessi Sposi), and Giacomo Leopardi, a profound poet and philosopher.
     
5. Modern and contemporary (20th century – present)
   • Modern literature in Italy reflects the complexity of the 20th century, with themes of war, identity, existentialism, and politics.
   • Notable authors: Italo Calvino, known for his Invisible Cities, and Primo Levi, famous for his writings about the Holocaust.

Must-Know Italian authors

1. Dante Alighieri (1265 – 1321)
   • Dante is the father of the Italian language and the author of The Divine Comedy, a monumental epic that takes the reader on a journey through Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven. Dante’s work helped standardize the Tuscan dialect, which became the basis for modern Italian.
2. Francesco Petrarca (1304 – 1374)
   • Petrarch, a major figure of the Renaissance, is known for his Canzoniere, a collection of poems dedicated to his muse, Laura. His sonnets set the standard for Italian poetry and had a huge influence on European literature.
3. Giovanni Boccaccio (1313 – 1375)
   • Author of The Decameron, a collection of 100 tales told by a group of people sheltering from the Black Plague. His work mixes humor, love, and a critical view of society.

If you’re interested in learning Italian in Italy and want to deepen your knowledge of Italian literature, language, culture, and art, contact Go! Go! Italia. We’ll help you find the best program in the best city that meets your interests and goals.