RLSP 201
The Spanish Labyrinth Fall 2024
Division I

How can you learn to separate the stereotypical images of Spain from its current reality? How can we talk about one “Spain” when the country is a complex composite of ancient and diverse cultural remnants mixed with recent influxes of immigrants, and separatist movements? How has the vulnerable peninsula survived centuries of violent upheavals and divisiveness; dramatic economic rises and collapses? How have recent events and political tensions affected Spain’s health system, demographics, and economy? This course aims to offer students a strong foundation in Spanish issues, whether they have already spent time abroad, or hope to do so in the future. In this course we will approach Spain by studying examples of its literary and artistic production, from periods of brilliant cultural exchange, and times of censorship, repression, and crisis. Some topics of focus will be the Inquisition, the Civil War, contemporary Spain’s obsession with its own recent past, and its uncertain future. Secondary texts will also be provided for historical and socio-political background and reference. Conducted in Spanish. We will also use films and music.