This course is a topics-focused introduction to the immense variety of cultures and societies that we group together under the concepts of “Latino/a” and “Latin America.” Through the study of both high and popular culture, we will explore historical, cultural, political, and socioeconomic issues in the region. Where did the term “Latin America” come from? What makes this region unique? We will read articles and book chapters, see and discuss films, and engage in conversations with invited guests. Our conversation begins with the idea of America as “invention” (O’Gorman 1961) and culminates in projects on contemporary artistic and social phenomena and movements.

Spanish 320 counts toward the major and minor in Spanish, the minor in Latin American Studies, and the major in World Intercultural Studies. It may also be used to fulfill the General Education requirements in Communication and Language or Literature and Humanities. Final projects support the Advance Student Research Experience Pathway, and honors contracts are available. Upper-level and graduate students may take the course as Spanish 451(G).

Prerequisite: Spanish 202 or the equivalent. Class is in Spanish. Readings in Spanish and English. Spanish majors and minors read and write in Spanish. Others may work in their own languages. For more information: leslie.bary@louisiana.edu.