History and Culture of Northern New Mexico

Catalog description

This course will help students foster a relationship with northern New Mexico. In this class we will examine the history and culture of the Río Arriba as it is experienced in the politics, arts, and traditions of the region. We will discuss its cultural heritage through primary texts, guest speakers, on-site, and hands-on learning. While we will learn about the evolution of northern New Mexico through the lens of origin stories and colonial periods, we will focus more specifically on learning about cultural practices related to agriculture, music, language, food, religion, land use, art, fiestas, dance, healing, and many other regional traditions. We will also unpack the various groups of people who have made northern New Mexico their home in an effort to dispel the myth of a tricultural region. As we analyze place and space through various modes of cultural production, we will also examine our own particular beliefs and impressions so as to develop a deep awareness and understanding of the place in order to cultivate a cultural appreciation and understanding of the people and their practices.