11 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 17, 2015
Phelps Theater in Beimdiek Recreation Center
Admission: free
In its beginnings, written literature in the area known today as Spain revealed the influences of Latin, Arabic, and Hebrew texts as conquests and colonizers shaped the cultural landscape of the Iberian peninsula. Upon that foundation, the Middle Ages brought forth one of the most significant Spanish-language writings, called Cantar de mío Cid (“Song of My Cid”). This famous epic poem, written in the 12th century but enduring in popularity today, traces the compelling adventures of an actual nobleman in realistic and vivid detail. Several centuries later, a period of remarkable creativity emerged with the Renaissance and the Golden Age, with many examples of outstanding works reflecting interesting styles and themes. This reading session, presented by English department faculty, will feature a variety of writings from diverse authors to provide examples of some of Spain’s most venerated literature.
9:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 1, 2015
Phelps Theater in Beimdiek Recreation Center
Admission: free
Considered Spain’s greatest writer, Miguel de Cervantes wrote the famous tale, Don Quixote, in the 17th century. Undoubtedly a vital influence on the modern novel, Don Quixote traces the exploits of the title character and his squire, Sancho Panza, through their many exciting adventures and often humorous interactions revealing widely varying attitudes about life held by these two complex characters. Don Quixote, fascinated by chivalric stories, attempts to live as would a knight seeking justice, whereas Sancho Panza takes a far more realistic view of the world. This session, presented by English faculty, will feature intriguing excerpts from the novel, along with examples of illustrations by famous artists created for various editions of Don Quixote.
9 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2015
Phelps Theater in Beimdiek Recreation Center
Admission: free
The term “modern” covers a broad time period for this session, which will feature examples of important writings from more than a century. We will begin with the Generation of 1898, an especially creative time that brought dramatic changes to Spanish literature. Another period of notable creativity emerged in the 1920s, with poet Federico García Lorca among its many talented writers. In the 1930s Spain plunged into civil war, and writers were repressed as the country was ruled by the despotic Franco. Later in the century, after Franco’s era had passed, democratic influence helped initiate a new phase of literary work. In this session, faculty from the English department will share examples of important literature during this lengthy period of change and innovation.
