Cycles of Resistance: Indigenous Voices in Latin American Literature and Culture
SPAN 251
Fall 2025
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01
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This course explores the richness and diversity of Indigenous voices in Latin America, from early colonial records to contemporary expressions. Using a transhistorical methodology, we will examine how socio-political issues and topics like land defense, cultural resilience, gender violence, hybrid identity, and political resistance persist and evolve through diverse perspectives in Indigenous discourse and cultural production. We will analyze and compare foundational texts like the Popol Vuh and Nueva corónica y buen gobierno, as well as original manuscripts alongside contemporary voices such as those of Humberto Ak'abal, Yana Lucila Lema, and Sonia Guiñansaca. Special attention will be given to the writings of indigenous women, exploring how they have challenged hegemonic narratives and reclaimed their bodies and territories. Additionally, we will explore multimedia expressions and digital activism to understand how indigenous individuals and communities adapt and resist in a globalized world. This course invites students interested in literature, cultural studies, gender studies, and human rights to engage critically with indigenous perspectives, fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities of Latin American cultures. |
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| Credit: 1 |
Gen Ed Area Dept:
HA RLAN |
| Course Format: Seminar | Grading Mode: Graded |
| Level: UGRD |
Prerequisites: SPAN221 |
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Fulfills a Requirement for: (Hispanic Literatures and Cultures)(Latin American Studies) |
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Past Enrollment Probability: Not Available |
| SECTION 01 |
Major Readings: Wesleyan RJ Julia Bookstore
Popol Vuh, Nueva corónica y buen gobierno (Guamán Poma de Ayala), Huarochirí manuscript, Los Ríos Profundos (José María Arguedas), Poetry by Humberto Ak¿abal (K'iche' Maya), Briceida Cuevas Cob (Maya Yucatec), Yana Lucila Lema (Kichwa Otavalo), Seremos jaguares: Vida y resistencia en la Amazonía ¿ Nemonte Nenquimo, among others
· Films Wiñaypacha (Dir. Óscar Quispe Catacora) and A Última Floresta (Dir. Luis Bolognesi)
· Music from Renata Flores, Mare Advertencia Lirika, Luanko, among others.
· Theoretical readings include Silvia Rivera Cusicanqui, J.C. Mariátegui, Rita Segato, María Lugones, Nina Pacari, Walter Mignolo, etc.
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Examinations and Assignments:
TBD |
Additional Requirements and/or Comments:
This class is intended for students who have completed SPAN 221 with a B- or better. Students who have not done so should consult with the professor before preregistering. Readings, written assignments, and class discussions will be in Spanish. Only COL students may take this course CR/U. Students are expected to be active/informed participants in class discussions, further developing their spoken Spanish skills. |
Instructor(s): STAFF
Times: .M.W... 10:50AM-12:10PM; Location: TBA |
| Total Enrollment Limit: 15 | | SR major: 8 | JR major: 2 | | |
| Seats Available: 14 | GRAD: X | SR non-major: 1 | JR non-major: 1 | SO: 2 | FR: 1 |
| Drop/Add Enrollment Requests | | | | | |
| Total Submitted Requests: 0 | 1st Ranked: 0 | 2nd Ranked: 0 | 3rd Ranked: 0 | 4th Ranked: 0 | Unranked: 0 |
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