Besuch der Weltausstellung. Politik, Literatur, kulturelles Erbe und Sprachen in den Schriften italienischer Arbeiter

During the 19th century, the European ruling classes implemented strategies to include the working classes in the new industrial society, in which universal exhibitions played a key role. This article analyses the reports written by Italian workers during their visits to the major exhibitions of the 19th century, highlighting their importance for the study of working-class cultures. It explores three aspects: the political orientations of workers; their general culture; and the linguistic style through which workers expressed a cultural identity shaped by their socio-economic and educational background.