In this course we explore the histories, politics, and imaginaries of black indigeneity in both the Americas and Africa. We examine colonialism, chattel slavery, and imperialism as forces that shape who counts as indigenous and why.
Days: TH  09:00-11:50 AM

What happens when we shift the lens through which we look at the history of a national cinema? How can we read critically the history of Brazilian cinema—among the most thriving film cultures in Latin America—when we consider that film in Brazil is historically a white medium? This course will introduce key films and debates of Brazilian cinema, from its early silent years until the current decade, through the lens of racial difference and the violence that comes with it, promoting a critical approach to the relation between aesthetics, technology, and politics. Through the study of a broad range of works—documentary films, musicals, experimental films, and commercial blockbusters—alongside historical issues of industry and labor, this course will explore the centrality of racial difference for the consolidation (and the critique) of Brazilian cinema.
Days: MO WE  02:00-03:20 PM

Mexico is an enigma—from tropical rainforests to searing deserts, pinnacles of wealth to depths of despair, it is a land of extremes. On the verge of collapse more than once, Mexico now boasts one of the world’s largest economies. This course introduces students to the story of Mexico’s formation and evolution from colonial times to the present. This will be a broad analysis of the place that history has played in national political structures, economic formations, and social movements. We will examine the indigenous roots of pre-Columbian Mexico, the impact of conquest and colonization, the struggle of nation-building, revolution, reconstruction, and development. Particular attention will focus on the forces—both internal and external—that have contributed to shaping a Mexican identity. These issues will be covered through lectures, videos, and primary/secondary readings.
Days: MO WE  01:00-01:50 PM

A historical overview of Latin American literature and culture mainly focused on canonical texts. Topics include colonialism and postcolonialism, the nation, indigenismo, gender, and literary movements. Also introduces literary analysis, research methods, and cultural critique.

Prerequisite: SPANISH 3 or SPANISH 3H. Placement into SPANISH 101A is also accepted.

Days: TU TH  09:30-10:50 AM