This course aims to offer students a full immersion into the medieval history, culture, and language through an in-depth study of Tuscan food tradition. The course will consist of several academic learning and experiential workshops to complement this aim, including a study of architecture and art, history of ancient manuscripts, and earlier printed books that are preserved in the Castle of the Counts Guidi and the Rilliana collection. Formal instruction will also include seminars on the history of Tuscan cookbooks, utensils, food, and communication media.

The project is structured over four weeks. It will include general training on the main topics of the course during morning classes and both beginner and advanced Italian language classes during afternoon learning labs. The courses will also cover Medieval history, the history of manuscripts and books, as well as art history in Tuscany. Students will also get to participate in a workshop held by professional chefs where they will learn about ancient cookbooks of the Rilliana Library. During the workshop students will familiarize themselves with the Italian food terminology and cooking practices described in the ancient manuscripts.

Study and analysis of the 18th-early 19th century handwritten cookbook written by the “Tuscan Anonymous” (Ms 567) will be the core of experiential labs at the Rilliana Library. Here, students will be involved in an object-based study that includes an analysis of the Italian language, vocabulary, and materiality of the manuscript under examination. Students will also receive a historical introduction on Poppi and the artistic, cultural, and architectural features of the surrounding territory, complemented by organized visits to other locations relevant to Dante and the Counts Guidi in Casentino.

Location

( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)