Spain and its Others

Module code: SP3165

This module focuses on representations of difference (understood in terms of gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation and citizenship status) in a selection of Spanish cultural texts from the 1950s to the 2010s. You will be invited to consider how the set texts not only reflect, but also contribute to construct (and, sometimes, challenge) discourses on gender/ethnic/sexual/national identity. Lectures will provide you with necessary knowledge on the socio-historical context and introduce new theoretical concepts that can help inform your analysis of texts. Seminars will be structured around close textual analysis questions or exercises. You will gain a thorough understanding of the Spanish social and cultural landscapes from the early year of General Franco’s regime and up to contemporary, globalised Spain. Through analysis of different representations of gender, ethnicity and sexual orientation, you will further develop your knowledge of contemporary Spain, as well as of the country’s evolution over the past 60 years.

On successful completion of the module, you will be able to critically engage with the notion of alterity (or 'otherness') and consider the role of cultural products in both reflecting and shaping social attitudes towards certain minority or disadvantaged social groups. You will also enhance your research and analytical skills, recognising, evaluating and applying key critical responses and/or theoretical concepts to the topics covered.

Topics covered

• Gender role in Francoist Spain
• The figure of the gypsy in 1960s Spain (and beyond)
• Emigrants and immigrants
• Homosexuality in transitional Spain and beyond