Fall 2013 and Winter 2014 quarters
- Faculty
- Tom Womeldorff economics , Alice Nelson Spanish language, Latin American studies
- Fields of Study
- cultural studies, economics, gender and women's studies, history, literature and political economy
- Preparatory for studies or careers in
- literature, history, economics, political economy, sustainable development and Latin American studies.
- Description
-
The recent history of Latin America can be described as a struggle for self-determination, from the time of its conquest and colonization to its present-day unequal footing in the world economic system. At the same time, the distinct countries and sub-regions of Latin America have specific local experiences that in some cases differ dramatically. Our study of the Caribbean, Mexico and the Southern Cone, three geographic areas with varying historical, political and economic contexts, will illuminate Latin America's diversity, while also highlighting the connections between personal, national, and regional politics in Latin America.
Using these three sub-regions as our primary focus, we will explore how self-determination is manifested in relationships of class, gender and ethnicity at the individual, national and international levels. We will study the specific ways in which struggles for self-determination have emerged in various countries, such as slavery and resistance, as well as distinct ethnic and national movements, in the French, English and Spanish Caribbean; ongoing issues of violence and sovereignty in Mexico; and the roles of new social movements (especially those led by women) in resistance to authoritarianism and transitions to democracy in the Southern Cone, especially Chile. In each case, we will consider how cultural forms are shaped by, and in turn may shape, historical change, as well as the impact of economics on processes of social transformation.
Over the two quarters, we will engage the historical and contemporary realities of our countries of focus using multiple frameworks from the humanities and the social sciences. In the process, we will introduce literary and cultural theory, as well as political economy-based theories of capitalist development. Students will gain an in-depth ability to interpret literary texts in their social contexts, and to use political economic models to understand specific aspects of Latin American societies. This program will involve frequent writing assignments, as well as quantitative and qualitative modes of analysis. We will also develop some skills in visual analysis, critically viewing films each week.
- Campus Location
- Olympia
- Online Learning
- Enhanced Online Learning
- Books
- Greener Store
- Required Fees
- $200 per quarter for overnight retreats.
- Offered During
- Day