Learning outcomes

Profound examination and critical reflection on the relevant topics of Benjamin’s aesthetics.

Program

Revolutionary reflexes. Hölderlin and Novalis

Contents:
The central item of the course is the concept of revolution such as a part of the German intelligentsia developed it in relation to the great French Revolution, but also to its failure. First of all the philosophical fundaments of German Romanticism will be exposed, which Benjamin synthesizes in the concept of “medium of reflection”, as well as the opposition between the romantics and Goethe. Novalis’ novels will be examined as realizations either of Benjamin’s conceptions and of Novalis’ aesthetics itself, such as it is exposed in the introductive essay to the Discepoli di Sais. Afterwards the short fragment by the title Il più antico programma dell’idealismo tedesco will be analyzed in order to individuate the philosophical and revolutionary moments at the basis of Hölderlin’s literary texts. Especially Iperione, but as well La morte di Empedocle constitute the basis for a reflection on the revolutionary character of the romantic movement, which represents the first European avant-garde. Hölderlin’s writings on aesthetics will serve as a corollary for the lecture especially of his tragedy.

Didactical Methods: The is structured prevalently by frontal lessons and lectures from the texts; the major themes will be items for a discussion.

Examination Methods

The exam consist in an oral discussion with the teacher.