Gianni Riotta

ferrante

Language versus dialect, or why we're obsessed with Elena Ferrante

Elena Ferrante's Neapolitan novels have become global hits. They are rife with love and sex and the mob — and commentary about language. This week on the podcast we explore Italy's linguistic history and the tensions between Italian dialects and the lingua franca.

Language versus dialect, or why we're obsessed with Elena Ferrante
A couple kiss in front of the Pantheon during a demonstration of supporters of same-sex civil union in Rome.

Protesters in Italy tell lawmakers it's time to 'wake up' and recognize same-sex unions

Protesters in Italy tell lawmakers it's time to 'wake up' and recognize same-sex unions

Italy's Berlusconi spends his first day performing community service

Italy's Berlusconi spends his first day performing community service

Journalist Says US and Italy Should Recognize Welfare State is Dead

Journalist Says US and Italy Should Recognize Welfare State is Dead

Monti Starts Forming New Italian Government

Monti Starts Forming New Italian Government