Il simbolismo del chiedere scusa = The Symbolism in Apologizing

The author highlights the variety of uses of the term ‘symbolic’ in Riccardo Mazzola’s latest volume. Focusing on its use as a synonym for ‘semiotic’, he argues that the concept of offence, considered a prerequisite for the ritual of apology in the book, is in fact defined by the ritual itself. The same can be said of the concept of the offender’s responsibility. Furthermore, important similarities are highlighted between the model of apology and the penal law model, as emphasised by the ‘expressive’ theories of punishment. Finally, the author asks whether the apology restores the offended party’s honour or rather their dignity.