Italy and its discontents: Family, civil society, state, 1980-2001

Paul Ginsborg's account of this most recent and dynamic period in Italy's history is aimed at anyone wishing to understand contemporary Italy. Ginsborg chronicles a period that has witnessed a radical transformation in the country's social, economic and political landscape, creating a fascinating and definitive account of how Italy has coped - or failed to cope - as it moves from one century to the next. In its size, population and manufacturing output Italy is in many ways compatible with Britain. It even has its own north-south divide. Yet among the many vast differences is the importance Italy attaches to the family. With particular emphasis on its role in Italian life, work and culture, "Italy and its Discontents" shows how smaller families, longer lives and greater generation cross-over have had significant effects on Italian society. The book also looks at the 2001 elections, and explores the influence of the Mafia, the decline of Communism and Catholicism, and the increase in prosperity on the national identity.