Of all the international underworld networks, gangs and criminal organisations, the Italian Mafia is certainly amongst the eldest and most renowned. How could a series of bloody Sicilian vendettas fuelled by a primitive notion of honour, proud defiance and a medieval code of chivalry evolve into a sophisticated and hierarchical organisation capable of infiltrating, blackmailing and crippling a modern European state? From its earliest apparition, in the 1860s, to the recent Berlusconi trials and the death of boss Matteo Messina Denaro, this short class seeks to explore the socio-economic, political and cultural milieu that allowed this most infamous phenomenon to come into existence, prosper and quickly spread across the Italian peninsula and beyond. By the end of the class, you will not only be in the position to assess and evaluate this crucial phenomenon comprehensively, you will also be able to speculate on what future scenarios might look like. Lectures style followed by class discussion.

Suitable to all levels. No Knowledge of the Italian language is required.