Module SPAN1141: Identity in the Spanish Speaking World

Department: Modern Languages and Cultures (Spanish)

SPAN1141: Identity in the Spanish Speaking World

Pre-requisites

Corequisites

Excluded Combinations

Aims

• To provide an introduction to representations of the question of identity in the Spanish speaking world, laying the foundations for advanced study at levels II and III

Content

• This module involves the study of constructions of identity in the Spanish-speaking world, paying particular attention to representations of race, gender, sexuality, exile, and nationality in representative samples of Spanish and Latin American cultural production.
• Classes, which will be given in English, will look not simply at literature in its traditional sense (novels, short stories, poetry, drama, and so on), but filmic, artistic, and even musical representations. These will be used to build an understanding of identity in the Spanish-speaking world, focusing specifically on the extent of variation between different countries, periods, and cultural forms.
• By taking the course students will gain an understanding not just of the ways in which the self is constructed and represented (particularly in relation to broader conceptions of identity), but how the Spanish-speaking world is characterized by a series of distinct and individual conceptions of selfhood that differ subtly but significantly from one another.

Learning Outcomes

• An understanding of the main elements that shape representations of and attitudes towards cultural identities in Spain and Latin America.
• Knowledge of selected examples of literary and filmic representations of identity produced in Spain and Latin America.
• An understanding of the complexity and diversity of the Spanish speaking world with specific reference to representations of identity, paying particular attention to questions of race, gender, sexuality, exile, and nationality.

• An ability to evaluate critically and contextualize representations of identity in the Spanish speaking world
• Comprehension, critical analysis, and selective reapplication of information from a variety of sources.
• An ability to combine organized independent study with effective group work
• Coherent articulation of ideas and arguments, orally and in writing

• Writing skills
• Research and time management skills
• IT skills (word-processing of assignments, use of an online learning environment, use of online sources of information)
• Understanding of cultural attitudes and differences in the Spanish speaking world

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• A weekly general lecture will deliver key information on the module; a fortnightly seminar with smaller groups will allow for individual presentations and active discussions
• The summative essay is based on topics covered during the Michaelmas Term.
• The examination covers the work carried out in the Epiphany and Summer Terms and tests the understanding of topics under controlled conditions
• The mixture of summative essay and final examination responds to requests from students for this mode of assessment

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment

None