British Academy: The UK's National Academy for the Humanities and Social Sciences
Giuseppe Mazzini and the Globalization of Democratic Nationalism 1805-2005
Abstract
Mazzini's legacy in the new Italy, 1860-1915
Christopher Duggan, University of Reading
Mazzini's impact on the left in Italy after 1860, and how, after his death, he was viewed 'officially'. I'd look at his position within the cult of the Risorgimento as it developed in the late 19th century, and try and identify those elements in his life and thought that were felt to be pedagogically most valuable for the 'new Italy'. I'd try and weigh up the liberal-democratic components against the religious elements of martyrdom and the cult of la patria. I hope this won't be treading on anyone else's toes.