Department of Spanish and Portuguese

Preqequisites: S328 or equivalent

This course offers an in-depth exploration of Central American literature and culture in its social and political contexts, ranging from the late 15th and early 16th century encounters between indigenous and Spanish conquerors to 20th century experiences of neocolonialism, anti-imperial struggle, and new forms of violence associated with globalization (narcotrafficking, human trafficking, gang violence) together with authoritarian responses to these new phenomena. El Salvador’s current president, Nayib Bukele, the self-styled “world’s coolest dictator,” will be one of our focal points. We will also spend extensive time studying so-called “circular migration” or the historical phenomenon of displacement that has led to so many Central Americans struggling to find refuge in the north.

Readings will include selections from the pre-Columbian Popul Vuh, poetry (Rubén Darío, Ernesto Cardenal), short to medium length novels (Miguel Angel Asturias, Rodrigo Rey Rosa, Horacio Castellanos Moya), a political autobiography (Giaconda Belli), journalistic writing (Oscar Martínez), the work of the Nicaraguan Black feminist painter June Beer, films, and photographs.

HISP-S 481     #29783    9:35A-10:50A      MW        WH 104          Prof. Patrick Dove

Note: This class meets with HISP-S 498  #13038

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