Course Title: Benito Mussolini and the Italian Fascism
Instructor: Dr. Michele Zanobini, A&S '16 (PhD)
Brought to you by Odyssey
January 31, 2026 - February 14, 2026 (3 Sessions)
Saturday, 10:00AM ET - 11:30AM ET
Virtual via Zoom
Course Description: Between 1922 and 1945, Italy endured one of the darkest chapters in its modern history. From Mussolini’s March on Rome to the passage of the racial laws, Fascism gradually dismantled liberty and transformed a liberal state into a totalitarian regime rivaled only by Hitler’s Germany.
Through archival footage, film clips, and contemporary accounts, this course examines the forces that enabled Fascism’s rise, its consolidation of power, and its violent collapse. In an age witnessing new strains of authoritarianism, understanding Italy’s past offers crucial lessons on democracy’s fragility and resilience.
Each session combines lecture and discussion; no prior background is required and suitable for all levels.
*Top Rated Instructor*
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Dr Michele Zanobini studied Classics at the University of Florence (BA 2006; MA’s 2008) before attending Johns Hopkins University, where he was awarded a second Master’s degree in Classics as well as a PhD in German and Romance Languages and Literatures (2016). He then moved to Glasgow (UK), where he currently serves as teacher of Latin, Greek and Classical Studies at the Glasgow Academy and tutor of History and Italian Studies at the University of Strathclyde.
Michele’s research is interdisciplinary and ranges from ancient tragedy to the intersections of music and literature, Renaissance and Dante studies. His articles and Academic contributions feature in leading national and international peer-reviewed Academic journals.
Event DateStarts: Saturday, January 31, 202610:00am ESTEnds: Saturday, February 14, 202611:30am EST
ContactOdysseyAlumni Relations Lifelong Learning1-800-JHU-JHU1 (548-5481)odyssey@jhu.edu
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