A survey of Caribbean literature and arts takes a multimedia approach to examine the different voices that resonate from the Spanish Caribbean and what appears to be a constant search for identity. By studying the works of prominent literary authors, films, music, and the plastic arts, we will study this region's socio-cultural context and traditions in a constant search for self-definition. Special attention will be given to the influential role ethnicity, colonialism, gender, and socio-economic development play in interpreting works from Puerto Rico, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, the Spanish Caribbean basin, and those of the Caribbean diaspora. By the end of the course, students will gain a deeper understanding of the cultural and literary contributions of the Spanish Caribbean, developing skills in literary analysis, cultural interpretation, and critical thinking. Assignments will include essays, presentations, creative projects, and class discussions that foster a nuanced appreciation of the region's literary heritage. This course satisfies the Inquiry Seminar to complete the HUA requirement in Spanish and would also count toward International and Global Studies and Latin American and Caribbean studies. In addition, this course would benefit students interested in WPI's Project Centers in Latin America and the Caribbean. This course is taught at an advanced level of Spanish.
This course will be offered in academic years ending in even numbers.