Along with providing an historical overview of the Italian philological tradition by investigating its evolution and transformations, this course will identify the principal research instruments, and their appropriate use. Particular attention will be given to the following topics: definitions and outline of the history of philology, the various types of editions, texts and their history, the preparatory stages of critical editions and their characteristics. The course is aimed at the philological "apprentice," that is, those who are approaching this field of study for the first time.