SPN3770 - Contesting Cultures and Identities in Modern Spain

Leader: Dr Stewart King

Offered

Clayton First semester 2007 (Day)

Synopsis

Through a range of texts -poetry, fiction, film and historical documents- this unit will examine the ways in which landscape, history, literature, language and people have been represented for differing political and cultural purposes in Spain from the nineteenth century until the present day. Emphasis will be placed on the construction of a dominant Spanish national culture and identity as well as on the formation of regional identities and cultures in the Basque Country, Catalonia and Galicia. It will also examine the way in which these representations help to construct, reinforce or challenge cultural identities at both a national and regional level.

Objectives

1. Have a thorough understanding of debates surrounding the construction of national and regional cultures and identities in Spain from the nineteenth century until the present.
2. Be able to compare and contrast different nationalist movements in Spain and discuss the cultural and political implications of such movements.
3. Be able to explain and apply theoretical approaches to identity formation.
4. Have developed a thorough understanding of the sociopolitical and cultural context of modern Spain.
5. Have developed the ability to analyse a variety of cultural representations in literary and non-literary Spanish texts as well as the ideological positions which underpin them.
6. Be able to produce critical written and oral work of a high standard in Spanish.

Assessment

Journal entries: 30%
Short essay (1000 words): 20%
Class presentation: 20%
Final essay (1500 words): 30%

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

SPN2130 or permission