SPN3750

Civilisation and Barbarism in Spanish American Literature ( 6 points, SCA Band 1, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Jeff Browitt

Offered:
Not offered in 2005.

Synopsis: This units surveys the different forms of literary production in Spanish America from the early years of independence into the twentieth century. A guiding thread throughout the course will be the examination of how 'civilization' and 'barbarism' are troped onto various aspects of Latin American reality: Europe versus America, city versus country, civilisation versus nature, culture versus civilisation, and so forth.

Objectives: To further enhance the student's reading and writing abilities in Spanish and to acquaint the student with some major artistic trends in Spanish American literature since independence. Students will also be encouraged think critically about the relationship between literature, history and politics.

Assessment: Take-home exam (1,200 words): 30% + 2 reading controls (800 words in total): 20% + Final essay (2000 words): 40% + Participation (500 words): 10%

Contact Hours: 3 hours (1 x 3 hour seminar) per week

Prerequisites: First year sequence in Spanish or permission