July 31 - October 02

Classics Book Club

2 hours of reading, speaking and conversation at an advanced level, to enjoy learning and discussing about the classic Italian literature novels

Additional information

A series of 10 classes, 2 hours each, dedicated to studying, reading, and discussing one of the most significant works of Italian literature.

In the Summer Term, the group will focus on the book “”Rinascimento privato” by Maria Bellonci, the acclaimed novel that gives voice to Isabella d’Este, one of the most influential women of the Italian Renaissance. Set in 1533, the story unfolds as Isabella, nearly sixty years old, reflects on her life — from her childhood in Ferrara to her years as Marchioness of Mantua, where she navigated politics, power, art, and personal ambition during one of the most brilliant periods of Italian history. Surrounded by painters, poets, popes, emperors, and military leaders, Isabella emerges as a fascinating and deeply human protagonist.

Blending historical accuracy with psychological depth and elegant prose, Bellonci creates far more than a historical biography. Rinascimento privato is a rich reflection on identity, memory, power, and the passage of time, offering readers an intimate and compelling portrait of Renaissance Italy through a uniquely feminine perspective.

Under Mattia’s guidance, you will explore the novel’s psychological depth, linguistic nuance, and philosophical complexity. Each class will combine close textual analysis with engaging discussion, helping you reflect on themes of identity, perception, reality, and self-awareness, while expanding advanced vocabulary and deepening your understanding of modern Italian culture and thought.

 

  • Friday 11:00 am – 1:00 pm PT

 

Reading book: “Rinascimento privato“, Maria Bellonci

 

For additional information, please contact us via email at:
PRICE
$490/pers
+ 10$ nonrefundable registration fee
DURATION

10 Weeks

HOURS
Friday 11:00 am - 1:00 pm PT
WHERE
Via Zoom

Let our students speak for us!

Truly a gem of a school
Erin Yu
"SFIIS runs a fantastic org and program - truly a gem of a school. The staff are warm and wonderfully efficient. I've done both in-person and online classes, and plan to continue for as long as I can. They cover all levels of Italian proficiency, with an engaging mix of private lessons, themed classes (e.g. Italian for Travelers), and regular Term classes. If you can, I highly recommend going in person for at least some lessons - they have a wonderful office in sunny North Beach."
Cannot recommend this online foreign language program for toddlers enough!
Andrea DiSandro
"First and foremost, let me sing praises for the incredible teacher, Francesca. She possesses a remarkable talent for not only teaching but captivating young minds. Her ability to blend learning and play seamlessly is nothing short of amazing. [...] What's truly heartwarming is witnessing my daughter's enthusiasm for her weekly class. [...] As a family that values multilingualism, I can confidently say that this virtual program stands head and shoulders above the rest. [...] I am beyond impressed and immensely grateful for the positive impact this program has had on our family. If you're seeking a top-tier virtual language learning experience for your little one, look no further. This program is truly amazing, and I wholeheartedly endorse it to any parent seeking to enrich their child's linguistic abilities.
Beginners 1 experience
Jeffrey Jordan
"I just completed my first course with Istituto Italiano Scuola and was quite impressed. It was both rigorous and fun in balance, inspiring me to learn and take my Italian further than ever before. I'll be back for the next level course."
IL MIO POSTO FELICE!!!!
Leslie Hughes
“What I like most about participating in a literature class with the Istituto is having classmates with whom to discuss our books. I like hearing their opinions and responding to them. Reading is a great pleasure of mine, but sharing a book makes reading an adventure. With a teacher guiding us we improve our language skills and become more self-confident expressing ourselves. I’m grateful for the opportunity!”
The best way to maintain and improve my language skills
Dennis Abbe
“I have been taking classes at the SFIIS for years because, short of a long stay in Italy, it is the best way to maintain and improve my language skills. But more than that, I enjoy being with the other students and my instructor(s), many of whom are now good friends. In my class we read classic and contemporary Italian literature, and our instructor keeps us up to date on Italian culture and even politics. The experience on Zoom is almost as good as the in-person classes; Barbara is amazing in her use of the tools to run a lively, efficient, and fun class.”
I've made life-long friends through SFIIS classes
Dede Heitman
“The SFIIS school offers the best, well rounded Italian languages classes in the Bay Area. With native speakers as teachers, the classes provide a comprehensive, natural and fun way of learning. Everyone feels welcome, no matter the level. The teachers are encouraging, entertaining and enthusiastic about their language and culture. As a bonus, I've made life-long friends through SFIIS classes. Please join our Italian language learning community!”
An authentic learning experience
SPEAK
ITALIAN
AND
LIVE
NEW
EXPERIENCES