What if human culture is not exclusively human? Zooanthropology, or On Becoming Cultural with Non-human Animals is an introductory 10-lesson course exploring the relationship between humans and other animals and asking a fundamental question: how much of what we call “culture” has actually emerged through our relationships with other species? The course offers a different perspective. Rather than considering culture an exclusively human achievement, zooanthropology understands it as something that has emerged through relationships, encounters and exchanges between species. Other animals are not simply objects of human knowledge or resources for human development: they are subjects who have influenced, shaped and transformed us. This perspective invites us to reconsider our own position in the world and to question some deeply rooted assumptions about the supposed boundary between humans and other animals. It also encourages us to decentre our perspective and to become more attentive to forms of intelligence, communication, emotion, learning and relationship that do not seem to resemble our own. The course is transdisciplinary, drawing on anthropology, philosophy, ethology and other fields. Along the way, you will encounter concepts such as intersubjectivity, epiphany, hybridisation and epimelesis, among many others. But don't be intimidated by the terminology! No previous knowledge of anthropology, philosophy, ethology or zooanthropology is required. What the course does require is curiosity, an interest in human–nonhuman animal relations, and a willingness to question some familiar ideas and look at the world from a less anthropocentric perspective. Slides and a bibliography will be provided.

I offer personalised Italian Literature lessons for students who want to improve their understanding of literary texts, analysis and written expression. Lessons can include the study of authors and literary movements, text analysis, themes and historical context, essay writing, oral presentations and exam preparation. I adapt each lesson to the student’s level and school programme, helping them develop both stronger analytical skills and greater confidence in expressing their ideas. As a native Italian speaker with experience in education, I aim to make literature engaging, accessible and connected to its wider cultural context.