Caribbean Transnational Cultures: The History, Literature and Film of the Spanish Caribbean

Catalog description

The peoples of the Spanish Caribbean share a common history of language, religion, a plantation economy, slavery, race mixing, a patriarchal family structure, and a high rate of population growth that has fueled steady emigration to the USA. Hence, this region offers an opportunity to learn about the common experience and culture of peasants, rural workers, slaves, artisans and elites. This course will study the commonality of their social history, economic development and communities in both the home countries and the USA, utilizing music, art, film, diaries, novels, poetry and other literature. Local field trips to museums and other cultural sites will enhance the in-class experience.