Courses

Fall 2008 - Spanish Course Descriptions

Spanish 001 - Elementary Spanish I

This course uses the communicative approach to teach listening comprehension, speaking, reading, writing and culture. In particular, it promotes the develop-ment of oral/aural skills and the practical use of language in a variety of social situations. Lab manual work is required. Conducted in Spanish. No prerequisites.

Spanish 002 - Elementary Spanish II

A continuation of Spanish 001. The course advances and completes the study of basic grammar and vocabulary. It provides the linguistic skills and cultural information needed in a broad range of situations met when studying, working or traveling in a Spanish-speaking country. Lab work is required. Students must also register for a recitation section that consists of a weekly 40-minute conversation group. Conducted in Spanish. Prerequisite: Spanish 001 or equivalent.

Spanish 003 - Intermediate Spanish I

A review of Spanish grammar with stress on the four skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing. Using the communicative approach, the course emphasizes the development of fluency and the functional use of language. Discussion will be based on literary texts as well as newspaper and magazine articles on contemporary issues in Spanish-speaking societies. Several compositions, debates and weekly lab work are required. Conducted in Spanish. Prerequisite: Spanish 002 or equivalent.

Spanish 004 - Intermediate Spanish II

This course continues the review of fundamentals of grammar begun in Spanish 003 and encourages the development of a large active vocabulary and a greater awareness of Spanish-speaking cultures. It aims at developing a level of language proficiency sufficient for survival in unusual or complicated situations (i.e., coping with an unforeseen event); and at participating in conversations about practical topics and current events. There will be regular lab assignments, compositions, class discussions, debates and oral presentations. Students are required to register for a recitation section that consists of a weekly 40-minute conversation group. Conducted in Spanish. Prerequisite: Spanish 003 or equivalent.

Spanish 004-WW - Intermediate Spanish II Writing Workshop Option

Block Lr Thursday 4:30 - 5:20p.m. Patricia Smith

Students will use writing as a means to become more deeply engaged in the readings and films, develop critical thinking, and improve their writing and discussion skills in Spanish. No extra graded work will be assigned. The workshop will provide the opportunity to map ideas for compositions, engage in peer discussion of drafts, and have individual conferences with the instructor. The writing workshop requires an extra 50 minutes of class time each week, and in recognition of the extra time commitment, a record of participation will appear on the student's transcript. Participants must register for both SPN 004 and SPN 004WW.

Spanish 021 - Composition and Conversation I

The course combines written and oral/aural practice of Spanish through oral reports, compositions, class discussions and debates on assigned topics, articles, short literary works and films. It offers a review of more advanced grammatical structures with the aim of achieving greater accuracy. Students are required to register for a recitation section that consists of a weekly 40-minute conversation group. Conducted in Spanish. Prerequisite: Spanish 004 or equivalent.

Spanish 022 - Composition and Conversation II

This course continues the grammar review begun in Spanish 021 with emphasis on written and oral expression of Spanish through compositions, oral reports and class discussions. Material for discussions includes literary texts as well as topics of general interest. Conducted in Spanish. Prerequisite: Spanish 021 or equivalent.

Spanish 22-XA - Hispanic Theater: Readings and Performance

Block J+ Anne Cantú

The purpose of this course is to further develop speaking and writing skills in Spanish through the reading, analysis and performance of Spanish, Latin American and Chicano plays. Students acquire an appreciation for theater from a variety of historical periods and theatrical trends. Coursework includes an oral presentation, compositions, in-class dialogues and discussions, and the dramatization of a one-act play. Complex grammatical functions and vocabulary-building are emphasized. Conducted in Spanish. Prerequisite: Spanish 21 or equivalent.

Spanish 22-XA-WW - Hispanic Theater: Readings and Performance
Writing Workshop Option

Block Gf 1:30 - 2:30p.m. Anne Cantú

In this once-a-week Workshop, students will work on improving their writing skills in Spanish through brainstorming, peer editing and mind-expanding activities related to the reading and writing of theater. These exercises will contribute to better written assignments and more thorough understanding of the texts used in the class. There are no out-of-class assignments for the Workshop. Recognition for attendance will be recorded on transcript.

Spanish 22-XB - Visiones de España

Block H+ Teresa Marcelin

This course is designed to upgrade the spoken and written language skills of students as well as an introduction to the Spanish peninsular culture and its contribution to world civilization. Geography, history, literature, and the social and artistic evolution of Spain are presented through a variety of readings including literary selections. Course work combines written and oral practice of Spanish through compositions, oral presentations, class discussion as well as an advanced grammar review and vocabulary building. Conducted in Spanish. Prerequisite: Spanish 21 or equivalent. 

Spanish 022-XC - El espíritu de Puerto Rico: Un seminario

Block L+ Nancy Levy-Konesky

This class takes an interdisciplinary approach to the study of Puerto Rico. While students continue to review grammar and to practice oral and aural skills, they will study the history, literature, politics, music, cuisine, art and religions of Puerto Rico and Puerto Ricans on the island as well as on the mainland. They debate the possible political destinies of Puerto Rico: Statehood, Independence or a continuance of the present status of ELA (Free Associated State, or Commonwealth). Students view two-three films during the semester, sample and learn to prepare Puerto Rican cuisine, and if possible, visit one of the major Puerto Rican neighborhoods of Boston: Villa Victoria and Plaza Betances. There is an optional opportunity for interested students to work on a volunteer basis with various Hispanic organizations in the Cambridge and Boston areas.

Spanish 23 - Advanced omposition for Heritage Learners

Block I+ Anne Cantú

Development and expansion of reading and writing skills for students without formal training in the language but with ability to comprehend and speak Spanish due to their heritage. Study of grammar and stylistics, differences in regional dialects, vocabulary expansion and effective communication based on literary and cultural readings. Students will do oral presentations, four compositions with rewrite option, grammar quizzes, four exams on the readings and a 5-7 page research paper. Conducted in Spanish. Prerequisite: Spanish 21 or consent.

Spanish 31 - Main Currents of Spanish Literature I

A - Block D Teresa Howe
B - Block G+ Kathleen Pollakowski
C - Block J+ Tamara Márquez-Raffetto
D - Block Q+ Dean Simpson

The most significant currents of Spanish literature from the Middle Ages through the 17th century. Selected works of representative authors read and discussed. Lectures and reports. Conducted in Spanish. Not for senior majors or for students returning from programs abroad. Prerequisite: Spanish 021 or equivalent.

Spanish 34 - Survey of Latin American Literature I

A - Block E+ Claudia Kaiser-Lenoir 
B - Block D+ Claudia Kaiser-Lenoir 
C - Block F+ Amy Millay
D - Block G+ Nina Gerassi-Navarro
E - Block N+ José Antonio Mazzotti

This course traces the development of Latin American literature from the earliest chronicles of discovery and conquest of the 16th century to modernist literature of the late 19th century. We will read key works of prose, poetry and other genres from various cultures of Spanish America as well as see films related to the topics under study. Authors include Hernán Cortés, Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz, Bernal Díaz and Inca Garcilaso. Emphasis is on historical context as well as literary analysis. Varied writing assignments, oral presentations and exams; class participation is essential. Conducted in Spanish. Not for senior majors or for students returning from programs abroad. Prerequisite: Spanish 21 or equivalent.

Spanish 91-A - The Latino Writing Experience (Creative Writing)

Block L+ Juan Alonso

Just as most Jewish-American writers write in English and not Hebrew or another European language, so do the majority of Latino writers write in English. There are, however, some who do not, and some who write in both English and Spanish. This course will be conducted principally in English but the writing can be in either language. Enrollment will not be limited to Latinas and Latinos. Professor Juan Alonso is a Latino novelist. See juanalonso.com for more information.

Spanish 93 - Independent Study (in English)

ARR Members of the Department

Guided individual study of an approved topic in Spanish peninsular or Latin American literature or civilization. Variable credit. Prerequisite: consent. To register for an Independent Study, see the Department Administrator.

Spanish 94 - Cuban Culture and Society (in English)

Block 12+ Wednesday 6:00-9:00 p.m. Claudia Kaiser-Lenoir

The course will examine key aspects of Cuban reality, with a particular focus on the post revolutionary period and a comparative approach within a Latin American context. Topics to be covered: culture, politics and governance, health and wellbeing, sustainable development. Guest presenters, films, examination of primary sources, selected readings, lectures. Students will develop their own research topics. Course fulfills the Culture, Humanities, and world Civilizations requirements; and also counts for the International Relations, Spanish, and Latin American Studies majors.

Texts: Isaac Sanney, Cuba: A Revolution in Motion and bound packet available in Xerox.

Spanish 102 - Latin American Short Story

Block 11+ Tuesday 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. Claudia Kaiser-Lenoir

Development of the Latin American short story from Romanticism to the present. A comparative approach, analyzing the influence of European and North American short fiction. Readings and discussion of short stories as well as of theory and criticism regarding this genre. Authors include García Márquez, Borges, Cortázar, and Valenzuela, among others. Papers, two exams, oral presentations. Prerequisites: Spanish 31 or 34 and either 32 or 35, or consent. 

Spanish 121 - Advanced Composition and Conversation I

Block L+ Dean Simpson

In this course the students will practice and improve their written and oral skills in Spanish in a variety of contexts and situations, both formal and informal. There will be daily core readings to serve as a backbone for the in-class task-oriented activities. The semester will be split into four sections: poetry, short story, theater and the novel. Creative and analytical writings will follow and reflect upon these genres. There will also be a comprehensive grammar review. Two exams (midterm and final), equivalent to four 3-4 page compositions, two movies, a skit and presentations. Not for native speakers or for those who have studied in Spanish-speaking countries. Prerequisites: Spanish 21 and 22, or consent. 

Spanish 125 - Translation from English to Spanish

Block F+tf Conchita Davis

Translation into the second language is an effective way to consolidate the command of the syntax and lexicon of the language in which you are becoming fluent. In this course you will review the concepts, techniques and translation skills that will be applied to the translation of English into Spanish. Texts include short stories, newspaper articles, and essays whose common denominator is their focus on Latin America, Spain or the Latino community in the US. Special attention will be paid to the use of bilingual and monolingual dictionaries, and other translation tools. Active class participation, weekly assignments, two exams, a final project, and one oral presentation. Prerequisite: Spanish 22, 23, 24 or consent. Conducted in Spanish.

Texts: Bound packet of readings available at Gnomon Copy, 348 Boston Ave, Medford. 

Spanish 141 - Golden Age Theater: Lope and Calderón

Block F+tr Teresa Howe

A study of Golden Age theatre with a focus on works by the two greatest dramatists of the siglo de oro. Special attention to the themes of kingship, razón de estado, honor, peasant vs. noble, and the role of women. Lectures, discussion, exams, and papers in Spanish. Prerequisites: Spanish 31 or 34 and either 32 or 35, or consent.

Spanish 170 - The Generation of 1898

Block H+ Juan Alonso

An exploration of the artistic and intellectual Renaissance in Spain and the spirit of modernity alter the cultural crisis at the time of the Spanish-American War. Authors include: Galdós, Unamuno, Baroja, Machado, and Valle-Inclán. Prerequisites: Spanish 31 and either 32 or 34, or consent. Conducted in Spanish.

Spanish 191-A - Literature of Post-Civil War Spain

Block J+ Kathleen Pollakowski

This course focuses on the literature of the Franco years, 1939-1975. After a brief introduction to the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939), we will examine the portrayal of Spain that emerges from a representative sampling of prose, poetry, and theater. We will study the role of the writer and his/her voice during this period of Spanish history, keeping in mind the specific challenges presented by official censorship. Some of the authors to be included are Camilo José Cela, Antonio Buero Vallejo, Alfonso Sastre and Carmen Martín Gaite. Papers, discussions and exams in Spanish. Prerequisites: Spanish 31 or 34, and 32 or 35, or consent.

Spanish 191-B - Evolution of the Heroic Figure in Early Modern Spanish Literature

Block H+ Tamara Márquez-Raffetto

This course will trace the evolution of the heroic figure in early modern Spanish prose, poetry, and drama. We will examine the development of the hero as a prototype whose representation reflects the social, historic, and cultural circumstances of the period. Gendered representations as well as counter culture models of heroic behavior will also be considered as we focus on identifying the compelling and uniquely Hispanic conceptualization of heroism during the Golden Age of Spanish literary production. Midterm and final exams, oral presentations, 1 paper (7-10 pp). Prerequisites: Spanish 31 and either 32 or 34, or consent. 

Spanish 191-C - Latin American Women Writers

Block D+ Amy Millay

This course will examine works by women from South America, Central America, and the Caribbean, ranging from the 17th-century Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz to Latina writers of the United States. We will explore the emergence of the female voice in Latin American writing in a variety of genres: the novel, poetry, the short story, and testimonial literature. Among the authors considered will be Ángeles Mastretta, Gabriela Mistral, Luisa Valenzuela, and Isabel Allende. Varied writing assignments, oral presentations, exams. Prerequisites: Spanish 31 or 34 and 32 or 35, or consent.

Spanish 191-D - Outlaws in Latin America

Block 10 Monday 6:30-9:00p.m. Nina Gerassi-Navarro

This course explores the process of nation building in Latin America through two specific kinds of outlaws: the bandit and the pirate. Given these figures' relation to the law, we will examine the notion of citizenship and how spatial, political and ideological differences were articulated during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries to legitimate a particular kind of national identity. We will analyze novels, poems and films from Argentina, Brazil, Colombia and Mexico. Note: Conducted in Spanish.

Spanish 193 - Independent Study (in Spanish)

ARR Members of the Department

Guided individual study of an approved topic in Spanish peninsular or Latin American literature or civilization. Variable credit. No more than one credit in Independent Study may be counted toward the major. Prerequisites: one 100-level literature course and consent. To register for an Independent Study, see the Department Administrator.

Spanish 199-AT - Honors Thesis

ARR Members of the Department

Open to qualified students. Variable credit. Prerequisites: Spanish 31 or 34, and 32 or 35, and consent. To register for an Honors Thesis, see the Department Administrator. Once the topic has been approved by the Chair, the thesis must be registered in the Office of the Dean of the Colleges.
equisites: Spanish 31 and either 32 or 34, or consent.

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