SPN 253 - Colliding Worlds: Cross-Cultural Encounters in Hispanic Literature and Film

Course Units: 1

In this course students examine fictional encounters between people from different backgrounds in the Hispanic world. What happens when a maid and her wealthy employer exchange clothing and roles? When the drivers of a shiny Audi and a rusty clunker inspire road rage in each other? Or when a girl looks into the eyes of an outsider whom she’s been complicit in bullying? We analyze stories, plays, and movies from Spanish-speaking countries, situating them in relevant historical and social contexts and examining in them the intersections of class, race, gender, culture, and national identity. Through readings, films, discussions, creative projects, and writing assignments, students continue developing listening, speaking, reading, and writing abilities in Spanish, as well as skills in critical analysis and intercultural communication. Prerequisite(s): SPN 201, SPN 202 any courses numbered SPN 250-259; AP Spanish score of 4+;or being a heritage speaker. CC: JLIT, JWOL, WAC