From Dictators to Detectives: Latin American Literature of the 20th and 21st Centuries
SPAN312 is an introduction to key Latin American literary texts of the 20th and 21st centuries in relation to their authors and the social, political, and cultural contexts in which they were produced. In particular, we consider how literature critiques, indexes, and contests structures of power. We will read both canonical works and lesser known fiction in a variety of genres (poetry, short stories, essays, the novel) to reflect upon the common themes of (neo-)colonialism, gender roles and gendered violence, class relations, race, culture, and politics. Readings and discussions in English.
Required readings: Tell Me How It Ends: An Essay in 40 Questions, Valeria Luiselli (available on Amazon, for order at local Pulp Fiction bookstores, or at UBC Bookstore)
Prerequisite: No prerequisites
Language of Instruction: English
Note: Not available for credit toward a Major or Minor in Spanish. This course fulfils the Faculty of Arts Literature Requirement.