Topics in Modern Language: The Splendor of Spain: Art and Culture

Catalog description

This course focuses on the Iberian civilization of Spain: its people, life and culture from the earliest settlers, through the Middle Ages and the Golden Age, to the present day. The diverse society of Christians, Jews, and Moslems, as well as the distinctive regions and ethnic groups of Catalonia, Andalucia, the Basque country, Galicia, Castile, and Asturias are studied. The great Spanish artists and architects (El Greco, Velazquez, Goya, Gaudi, Dali, Miro, and Picasso) are examined, as are Spanish traditions and festivals (Holy Week in Seville, pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela, the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, and bullfighting). Traditional Spanish music and dance (Federico Garcia Lorca), and Spanish film are explored. Spain is studied from historical and intellectual perspectives, including contemporary life in Spain (women's issues, the new democracy and the monarchy, family values, and student life in Spain). Includes trip to the Museo Casa de Espana.