Modern Italy in Historical Perspective

New
Paperback
2009
$39.94

A sense of failure pervades Italian history: the failure of the Liberal State after Unification to democratize, mobilize and modernize Italian politics, economy and society; the rise of Fascism as a reflection of these shortcomings; the problems of the post-war Republic, tainted by corruption, organized crime and terrorism. The notion has arisen of Italy as a deviant nation, unable or unwilling to follow the 'normal' path of state development. These perceptions are the stuff of historical debate, and it is with the ebb and flow of interpretation that this study is principally concerned. In each of the three sections - Liberal Italy, Fascist Italy and Italy from the Occupation until the end of the 'First Republic' - Nick Carter describes and evaluates the historiographical contours. The politics, economic developments, and society and culture of each period are thoroughly analysed, and an overview of recent research into hitherto largely neglected areas of study, such as gender, is also included. This book is an invaluable guide for those wishing to get swiftly to the heart of the issues in modern Italian history.

Synopsis

A sense of failure pervades Italian history: the failure of the Liberal State after Unification to democratize, mobilize and modernize Italian politics, economy and society; the rise of Fascism as a reflection of these shortcomings; the problems of the post-war Republic, tainted by corruption, organized crime and terrorism. The notion has arisen of Italy as a deviant nation, unable or unwilling to follow the 'normal' path of state development. These perceptions are the stuff of historical debate, and it is with the ebb and flow of interpretation that this study is principally concerned. In each of the three sections - Liberal Italy, Fascist Italy and Italy from the Occupation until the end of the 'First Republic' - Nick Carter describes and evaluates the historiographical contours. The politics, economic developments, and society and culture of each period are thoroughly analysed, and an overview of recent research into hitherto largely neglected areas of study, such as gender, is also included. This book is an invaluable guide for those wishing to get swiftly to the heart of the issues in modern Italian history.

$39.94

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10 in stock

More Information

Format: Paperback
Pages: 288
Publisher: Hodder Education
Published: 28 Aug 2009
ISBN 10: 0340759011
ISBN 13: 9780340759011
Book Overview: Offers a balanced and engaging account of Italy in this time period Covers new, hitherto largely neglected areas of research, such as gender Accessible, covering everything an undergraduate student would need for a semester long module - while encouraging wider reading An ideal summary and evaluation of the major debates in modern Italian history Covers economic and social/cultural as well as political developments

Media Reviews

Nick Carter has written a lively account of Italian history since the Risorgimeno, steering his way judiciously between the many passionate debates that are still fought out over the meaning of this (as every) past. Professor Richard Bosworth, Dept. of History, University of Reading and the University of Western Australia

Author Bio

Nick Carter is Senior Lecturer in modern European History at the University of Wales, Newport. He is a specialist in modern European History, particularly Italian History and European Integration.