Time Schedule:
Lauro H Flores
SPAN 332
Seattle Campus
Historical overview of the evolution of Chicano culture through film. Critical examination of the portrayal and self-portrayal of Chicanos in film and selected works of narrative. Prerequisite: either SPAN 301, SPAN 310 or SPAN 314, any of which may be taken concurrently. Offered: jointly with CHSTU 332.
Class description
Although people of Mexican descent have inhabited in the U. S. for centuries, it has been only during the last four decades that Chicanas and Chicanos have significantly asserted their presence through a sustained process of cultural revival and vindication. This process has involved diverse artistic media. Notable among these media are literature and film. Using these same vehicles, however, other groups have also attempted to depict Chicanos, at times sympathetically, at times pejoratively. In the main, this course will conduct an historical overview of the Chicano experience through film. Nonetheless, a critical examination of the portrayal and self-portrayal of Chicanos in film and selected works of narrative will be the nucleus of the course. Students are expected to view and read the assigned materials and to participate actively in class discussions. This course is cross listed with Chicano Studies 332. Therefore, it will be conducted in English in the main part. Students enrolled through Spanish will have the opportunity to read some of the materials and write reports in Spanish.
Student learning goals
Critical examination of literary and visual texts.
Articulation of coherent arguments around the artifacts under examination.
Development of writing skills using the pertinent terminology for analysis.
Students taking this course as Spanish 332 will have a chance to polish their verbal and composition skills in the target language.
General method of instruction
After the general introduction during the first meeting, sessions will alternate the viewing of films (Tuesdays)with discussions of the films and assigned readings (Thursdays).
Recommended preparation
See the films and read the relevant materials paying attention to detail; ask questions in class and participate in the discussions. Use your initiative searching for additional information on the subjects we´ll explore.
Class assignments and grading
Short articles and reviews on most of the films will be assigned in advance. In addition, students will read three books on which the respective films are based: T. Rivera´s ...y no se lo tragó la tierra / And the Earth Did Not Swallow Him, and J. Nichols´ The Milagro Beanfield War, and With His Pistol in His Hand by Américo Paredes.
Attendance and Participation: 25% 3 Film Reports (3 x 25% each): 75%
