Course Catalog 2012-2013

Director: Monica Ayala-Martínez (Spanish and Portuguese), fall; Micaela Vivero (Art Studio) spring

Monica Ayala-Martínez (Spanish and Portuguese), Dosinda García-Alvite (Spanish), Francisco López-Martín (Spanish), Kent Maynard (Sociology/Anthropology), Gladys Mitchell-Walthour (Political Science), Frank Proctor (History), Michele Stephens (History), Micaela Vivero (Art Studio)

The concentration in Latin American and Caribbean Studies is designed to promote a multidisciplinary approach to social, historical, political and linguistic issues in Latin America and the Caribbean. It is rooted in the basic pillars of a Liberal Arts education such as understanding the person as a whole, promoting critical thinking and expanding cultural horizons. Its mission is to provide students a strong historical, social and cultural foundation for the understanding of specific components of different Latin American and Caribbean cultures. Through this approach, we want to foster a critical awareness of the heterogeneity that characterizes the region as well as a critical understanding of the complexities of its relationship with the United States. The curriculum of the Latin American and Caribbean studies concentration expresses our commitment to developing the person as a whole. Our program accomplishes this by allowing students to explore, analyze, discuss, read and write about a variety of themes directly related to Latin America, from different theoretical frameworks. This in turn encourages students to reflect on their own cultural background.

Core Requirements. Students in the concentration are required to take (or demonstrate that they have taken the equivalent of) the following courses: 1. Two modern language courses (or the equivalent) beyond the general education requirements in a language spoken in the Latin American and Caribbean area (Portuguese, Dutch, French, Spanish, or an indigenous language). The two courses may be the two first semesters in one of these languages, if the student has already fulfilled the GE requirement in a language that is not spoken in the area. 8 credits 2. LACS 101 Introduction to Latin American and Caribbean Studies (taught in English), or SPAN 230, Introduction to Latin American Cultures (taught in Spanish). It will count as an I GE course as well. 4 credits 3. Senior Research. One semester of senior research. The project can be submitted in English. Where possible this could be done in conjunction with the student’s major. 4 credits

Electives. Latin American and Caribbean Studies students will also take three elective courses from different departments. These courses are offered as cross-listed by different programs. History: HIST 181, 182, 223, 280, 380, 383, 384, 391, 395 Fine Arts/ Language and Culture: ARTS 141, SPAN 220, 325, 425 Society and culture: SA 339, 319, SPAN 230, 330, 435

The same course cannot be used to fulfill more than one of the above requirements. Students are encouraged to consult with the Director of Latin American and Caribbean Studies in making their choices. Students are also encouraged to pursue study abroad programs in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Special Topics in Latin American & Caribbean Studies (LACS-100). 4

Special Topics in Latin American and Caribbean Studies (LACS-200).  Studies in Latin American and Caribbean Studies. 4

Introduction to Latin American Caribbean Study (LACS-201).  A comprehensive introduction to the nature of the problem of the Latin American society. A general study of the geography, the historical background, the social, economic, and political contemporary developments as well as the influence of religion and ideology on the Latin American and Caribbean countries. 4

The Atlantic World (LACS-212).  Drawing together the histories of Europe, Africa, and the Americas, this course explores the origins, development, and meanings of the new Atlantic World created after 1492. Topics may include imperial expansion and colonization, European-Amerindian relations, European-African relations, slavery and the trans-Atlantic slave trade, the growth of mercantile capitalism and the establishment of an Atlantic economy, the maturation of Euro-American colonial societies and their struggles for national independence, and the abolition of slavery. 4

Introduction to Hispanic Literature (LACS-220).  Reading and discussion of literary works from the Spanish-speaking world. Emphasis will be on utilizing language skills in the study and analysis of literature from Latin America, Spain and the United States. Conducted in Spanish. Prerequisite: 215. 4

Introduction to Hispanic Culture (LACS-230).  An introduction to the study of Hispanic cultures, both Peninsular and Latin American; this course presents the basic context of the customs, beliefs and values of the Hispanic peoples and seeks to provide a basis for more advanced study. Conducted in Spanish. Prerequisite: 215 or consent. 4

Special Topics in Latin American & Caribbean Studies (LACS-300). 4

Survey of Latin American Literature (LACS-325).  Survey of literary genres, periods and movements in Latin American from 1492 to the present. The main focus will be to give a sense of literary history and cultural context; readings will include representative selections from each period and movement. Conducted in Spanish. Prerequisite: 220 or consent. 4