Span 3202—Masterpieces of Peninsular Lit. II                              Prof. James A. Wojtaszek

T,Th 10-11:40 Office: Camden 214                                                   Phone: x6295

HUM                          Office Hours: T 9-10 a.m./ Th 2-3 p.m.         E-mail: wojtaszj@morris.umn.edu

Websites:       www.morris.umn.edu/~wojtaszj

                        www.morris.umn.edu/~wojtaszj/Pen_2

While it is hoped that the reading assignments are enjoyable and interesting as well as informative, our main objective in this class is to use the texts to gain insight into the history and culture, as well as the artistic production, of Spain.  Since the texts we will read come from different time periods, they will reflect changes in styles, themes, objectives and approaches to literature, as well as the changing expectations and value systems of society in general and of the reading public.  Keep in mind that, in reading representative texts from other time periods, it is essential to think beyond our contemporary perspective and expectations; readers from these periods would have held perspectives and expectations that would be quite different from ours, and the very idea of “entertainment” would have been significantly different for a typical reader prior to the days of mass culture and reality television.  In fact, the very idea of a “typical reader” would vary according to different historical moments, particularly before books were effectively mass-produced and literacy rates were relatively low.  In other words, our goal in this course will be to approach these texts “on their own terms,” using them as a tool and a window into the history and development of Spanish culture.

You will note that the quantity of reading assignments has been kept to a relative minimum, to allow for maximum quality of reading, discussion and interpretation of texts.  This being the case, I will expect responsible completion of all assignments and consistent participation in class; as noted below, this will be a significant portion of the final course grade.  Keep in mind that effective participation also includes the contribution of pertinent and thoughtful questions regarding the readings, not only observations and answers.  Over the semester, we will also be incorporating other short readings (both literary and non-literary), as well as films, maps, photos, art work, and other additional materials to enhance our study of Spanish literature and culture.

Evaluation

Preparation and Participation                                        15%

3 Take-Home Essay Exams                                          45%

Small Group Presentations                                            15%

Paper                                                                           25%

93-100              A                     87-89.9             B+                    77-79.9             C+                    60-69.9             D

90-92.9             A-                    83-86.9             B                      73-76.9             C                      0-59.9               F

                                                80-82.9             B-                    70-72.9             C-

S/N—A minimal grade of 70% required to pass the course.