Roots in the plural, put together like a mosaic of contributions and meanings that are sometimes even at variance: the foundations of Italian culture, it was suggested at this roundtable discussion, cannot be otherwise described. Formed from a diverse array of knowledge, customs and learning, Italian culture has over time developed a pluralistic unity. The result is a unique reconciliation of the differences generated by three major historical periods, marked respectively by the preponderance of medieval city-states, the emergence of new Renaissance-style scientific theories and the Industrial Revolution.
The discussions emphasized the essential role played within this process by the Italian language (thanks to the great literary milestones achieved in different periods such as by Frederick II’s Sicily, the great 14th-century Tuscan masters and through Manzoni’s contribution), art and music. Artists, writers and scholars have become the symbol of Italy, transcending its political borders and becoming more famous than the rulers and generals that have governed it. Nevertheless, despite Italian culture having succeeded in opening up universal values to the world, the question was raised as to why the country is struggling to leave its mark today. On the one hand, it was suggested, geopolitical changes have altered the global balance of power, and have also shifted attention towards new and more vibrant cultural centers, whilst on the other, a certain tendency to focus on Italy’s negative aspects has resulted in the country having little awareness of its resources, qualities and achievements.
Hence, in order to pick up the broken thread of the Italian cultural tradition, and reconnect the modern era to the greatness of its roots, both ideologies and dichotomous reasoning need to be rejected. Such efforts could help the country focus on a greater internationalization of its cultural and artistic heritage, which represents a treasure chest that should be proffered and showcased in Europe and the rest of the world, taking into account the regard in which Italy is already held by some countries (China, for instance, recognizes Italian and Latin culture as the other ancient civilization). It was stressed that the country must make continued efforts to attract talent, researchers, thinkers, big business groups and firms that see it not just as a museum, but as a living, breathing entity, capable of producing know-how and innovation.
Similarly, it was felt necessary that leaders and intellectuals be engaged in fostering a democratic and popular culture which heals the rift between the intelligentsia and ordinary people. Indeed, the issue of Italy’s cultural roots raises an aspect of the relationship between Italian culture and Italy. The former was a realm and an entity that was stronger than the country for centuries. When it came to be wedded to the nation, the State failed to connect with this cultural dimension and with the heritage it produced. For its own part, Italian culture remained elitist (probably due more to its pre-unification origins), whilst the country was in need of a democratic shift which did not eventuate.
This essentially ‘non-democratic’ nature provides the starting point for formulating a strategy to foster the inclusion of younger generations distracted and influenced by new technologies, whose language and reference points are far removed from the current debate over the roots of Italy’s national identity. This involves a considerable segment of the population that needs to be guided by the education system, but also by means of far-sighted policies capable of conveying to young people the appeal and universality of Italian ‘homegrown’ secular knowledge.
In conclusion, it was also noted that the renewed focus and emphasis on Italy’s cultural ‘roots’ should not detract from the need to consider the future. What all periods of growth and expansion in Italian culture throughout the centuries have had in common is a forward-looking and innovative vision. In times of great change like today, only the future and the sense of an undertaking that requires national cohesion can best preserve the unity of the country.