Writing an extended essay in Italian

Writing an extended essay in Italian

Choosing an Extended Essay Topic

  • Begin with a subject area that personally interests you- this could be something relating to Italian history, art, literature, or cinema.
  • Gradually narrow down this topic to a specific question or hypothesis which you intend to explore in depth.
  • Be mindful to ensure that the scope of your topic is not too extensive, restricting your ability to sufficiently cover all aspects due to word limit constraints.

Investigating Literature

  • Consider studying the evolution of themes in Italian literature over time.
  • Choose a specific author, such as Primo Levi or Elsa Morante, and analyse their body of work, influences and their relevance in Italian culture.
  • Examine a single piece of Italian literature, such as The Leopard or The Name of the Rose, focusing on its symbolism, themes, and style.

Exploring Historical and Cultural Aspects

  • Look into the enduring impact of Roman civilisation on contemporary Italy.
  • Study periods of societal change, such as Italy’s transition from a monarchy to a republic.
  • Analyse the prominence of Italian culture in everyday life, from cuisine and fashion to social behaviour.

Analysing Film and Cinematography

  • Explore a specific era or movement in Italian cinema, such as the Tavianis’ historical dramas.
  • Select a well-known Italian film director, like Luca Guadagnino or Alice Rohrwacher, and delve into their stylistic choices and influence.
  • Investigate the societal commentary in notable Italian films and their significance to Italian culture.

Conducting Thorough Research

  • Make use of reliable and varied sources of information, such as books, academia, documentaries, and interviews.
  • Balance your research with primary and secondary sources, for a well-rounded perspective.
  • Always critically evaluate your sources for their credibility, accuracy, and potential bias.

Structuring and Writing Your Extended Essay

  • Provide a thorough introduction that sets the context and outlines the objective of your research.
  • Structure your arguments in a clear and logical manner. Each paragraph should serve a specific purpose and contribute to your overall argument.
  • Conclude by summarising your analysis and reaffirming your initial hypothesis.
  • Properly cite all sources according to the specified citation style.

Review and Reflect

  • Upon completion, review your extended essay to identify any potential discrepancies or gaps in your research.
  • Reflect on your learning journey, how the process has expanded or challenged your initial preconceptions.
  • Suggest areas for possible future research relating to your chosen topic.