Course Description

The purpose of this course is to provide an introductory and brief analysis of Latin American civilization and culture.  The course will focus on general aspects of the very rich and complex Latin American history, starting from the most important pre-colonial indigenous groups up to a contemporary view of the different Latin American countries.  For culture, the course will cover pre-colonial, colonial, nineteenth century literature, modernism, and the literary boom, which led to Magic Realism and other movements.  Other issues to be included are the many diverse styles of Latin music and basic aspects of cultural interaction as nonverbal communication and

misconceptions among cultures.  During the course, students will be able to read, study, and discuss documents related to the main topics as well as be exposed to authentic material such as music and dance.  Finally, students will take a field trip in which they will learn more about coffee and its effect on the development of civilization and culture in Costa Rica.