In this course we will explore the literature of the Italian/American experience. Starting from the shores of Italy, we will chart various literary odysseys from abject poverty to suburban comfort. We will read the works of a wide-range of authors and genres, such as: Pascal D'Angelo’s Son of Italy; Leonardo Sciascia’s The Long Crossing; John Fante’s Ask The Dust and Full of Life; Mario Puzo’s The Fortunate Pilgrim; Pietro di Donato’s Christ in Concrete; Jerre Mangione’s Mount Allegro; Helen Barolini’s Umbertina; Francine Prose’s Household Saints; Albert Innaurato’s Gemini; and short stories by various Italian/American authors. We will also discuss the transgression and transformation achieved through the creation of a distinct, Italian/American literary tradition. Foregrounding our conversation in the sociopolitical realities of late eighteenth century Italy and the United States, we will work collectively to maintain the presence of Italian/American contributions within the Academy. As a foil to the literary works that we discuss, we will consider the proliferation of Italian/American stereotypes in popular American culture of ruthless gangsters, lovable buffoons, irresistible lovers, and claustrophobic families.