Differences between the North and South of Italy

There are many differences between the North and  South of Italy which are not only about  environment and climate, but also about the people and the way they think and behave. This is due to historical and geographical reasons which are very interesting and unique in their own way. There are many interesting books and movies on this subject and I recommend the book ‘Cristo si e’ fermato ad Eboli’ written by Carlo Levi in 1945. It gives a good insight into the situation in the South of Italy during Fascism and it sheds some light on why life is so different from the North. The movie, made in 1970, highlights these features effectively and it is definitely easier to digest. In fact, it must be said that the book is quite demanding, not only for an Italian student, but also for an Italian native speaker.

On the same subject, during our classes, we recently watched parts of the comedy ‘Benvenuti al sud’. Although, it is not as insightful and rich in meanings as ‘Cristo si e’ fermato ad Eboli’, it is a funny guideline on all the prejudices held by many people in the North about the South. Probably, you are aware of the existence of the political party Lega Nord inItalyand, through this movie, you will see some of the ideas on which it is founded. Besides, the movie offers a great view on many features which are so different between the North and South, such as foods, habits, environments, accents and even on the use of the Italian language (did you know that in many parts of the South they use the Voi instead of Lei in order to be formal, exactly as the French do!). It is very funny and enjoyable and not too demanding, especially if you have subtitles.

That is everything for today; I hope you will enjoy the movies and maybe the book.