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Spanish StudiesOne, First Semester,provides a basic historical
and geographical introduction to Spain and Spanish America. Topics
dealt with include: geographical and regional diversity, the
historical links between Spain and Spanish America from
colonisation to independence, the formation of the modern state as
well as reflections on the changing role of key social institutions
that are adapting to modern society, e.g. the family, political and
civil society organisations. The course will also introduce basic
concepts important to understanding sociopolitical and cultural
development in the two regions, including: authoritarianism,
political transition, democratisation and cultural identity.
The course is built up around two dimensions – content and
language:
The content dimension provides a general
introduction to the modern Spanish-speaking areas from a historical
perspective. It also presents basic knowledge of politics,
economics and culture in the students’ chosen region. The course
broadly follows the thematic organisation of the parallel
Globalisation Studies lecture series and draws on the addressed
theories and concepts. These conceptual approaches are presented in
conjunction with perspectives and concepts rooted in the specific
language area, so that students develop an understanding of
different theoretical traditions, and enhance their nationally
specific knowledge as well as their cultural sensitivity.
The language dimension is aimed at improving
students’ basic grammar skills, pronunciation and fluency; and
their reading and aural comprehension. Emphasis will also be placed
on learning and exercising phrases needed in order to make
presentations and participate in class discussions.
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