3.1 Ideals of Beauty

• How do ideals of beauty and aesthetics influence daily life?
• How does art both challenge and reflect cultural perspectives?
• How do communities value beauty and art?
• How is art used to record history?

Italy is regarded as one of the most beautiful and impressive countries in the world, recognized for its gorgeous cities and beaches that are rich in culture and history. But, there is a downside to this need for perfection: an obsession with appearance.

Looking at Italian music and architecture!!! Exciting!!

Music 

Italian music has traditionally been one of the cultural markers in the country because it holds an important position in society and in politics, and it is a representation of Italian identity. The "stereotypical" Italian music is thought of to be intense opera 😲, but in reality, American values have seeped into Italian society and revolutionized the music industry.

Italy vs. USA: Music Edition

• Italy—the voices are emotional and authentic, traditional songs are meant to be used for dance, ballads are popular, different regions have different music styles
• USA—music has an intense rhythm, lyrics try to discuss important themes, fewer instruments are used and more artificial noise, divide between country and pop music
• Both—music acts as a way to connect people, people attend concerts with friends/family, genZ has led to increases in streaming, music is always changing, there is a type of music for everyone

Famous Italian Artists

• Mina— 🎥  "Il Cielo in Una Stanza'," "Tintarella di Luna," "Ma Se Ghe Penso"
• Andrea Bocelli— 🎥 "Vivo per Lei," "Somos Novios," "Canto Della Terra"
• Umberto Tozzi— 🎥 "Te Amo," "E non Volo," "Angelita"'
• Laura Pausini— 🎥 "In Assenza di Te," "Vivere," "Strani Amori"'

Fashion 

Italy, specifically the city of Milan, is known as the fashion capital of the world. The styles involve solid colors and are clean and elegant. There is a sense of pride provided through the clothing and shoes. Aside from creating beautiful fashion (💲💲 ), Italy also puts on different fashion events throughout the year. This brings in famous designers and models from all over the world and boosts the Italian economy and image.

Important Ideas

• Fashion is a HUGE industry with many workers, money, opportunities, and parties
• Many adolescents use fashion as a way to fit in with their peers
• Popular brands include: Chanel, Michael Kors, Louis Vuitton

Image Courtesy of Laura Chouette, from Unsplash 

Image Courtesy of Evelyn Semenyuk, from Unsplash 

Image Courtesy of Park Street, from Unsplash 

Architecture 

The history of Italy dates back thousands of years. The connection to the ancient Romans and Greeks can be seen in many areas of life, but especially through Italian architecture. There is an emphasis on symmetry, order, and elegance, and people flock to Italy every year just to see the famous monuments, architectural sites, statues, and more...

Famous Historical Sites

• The Colosseum (il Colosseo)—Built around A.D. 70-72, the Colosseum was used as an amphitheater with games, gladiator combats, and wild animal fights

Image Courtesy of Millie Greaves, from Unsplash 

• St. Peter's Basilica (la basilica)—Built around the 4th century A.D., the church is a renowned work of Renaissance style and is the largest church in the world

Image Courtesy of Marc Babin, from Unsplash 

• Leaning Tower of Pisa (il Torre)—built in the 14th century as a common bell tower, it soon became a staple for tourists due to its 10-degree angle tilt :)

Image Courtesy of Anika Mikkelson, from Unsplash 

Modern Architecture

After WWII, there was a change in style, and the work became more modern. The buildings were less for "show" and "beauty," and instead held the purpose of supporting growing businesses and industries.

Image Courtesy of Sean Pollock, from Unsplash 

Image Courtesy of Artur Matosyan, from Unsplash 

** The traditional image of old Italian towns surrounded by plazas (le piazze) decorated with ornate fountains is still present in Italy today!!**

Image Courtesy of Michele Bitetto, from Unsplash