La España del Quijote

Course Description

Embark on a captivating journey through the golden age of Spanish history with our course, "La España del Quijote" (The Spain of Don Quixote). This immersive experience will transport you to the vibrant world of 16th and 17th century Spain, a time when the country stood at the pinnacle of global power and cultural influence. Using Miguel de Cervantes' masterpiece, "Don Quixote," as our guiding thread, we'll explore the rich tapestry of Spanish society during the transition from the Renaissance to the Baroque period.

This course offers a unique perspective on a pivotal moment in Western civilization, when Spain's monarchy created the first global empire in history. You'll discover how Spanish culture set the standard for the Western world, from literature and fashion to military and political treatises. We'll delve into the daily lives of people from all social strata, examine the impact of humanism on universities, and contrast the brilliance of artistic and literary geniuses with the shadows cast by the Inquisition.

What Students Will Learn

• A comprehensive understanding of Spanish history during the Golden Age, using "Don Quixote" as a narrative framework.
• Insights into daily life in 16th and 17th century Spain, including society, culture, and customs.
• Analysis of primary written and visual sources, allowing students to experience the era as if they were living in it.
• Comparative study of values in Quixote's Spain and contemporary society, tracing their evolution through history.
• Exploration of the literary and artistic masterpieces that defined the Spanish Golden Age.
• Understanding of the political, economic, and religious factors that shaped the period.

Prerequisites

This introductory-level course has no specific prerequisites. However, a basic understanding of Spanish history and an interest in literature and culture would be beneficial. The course is taught in Spanish, so a good command of the Spanish language is essential.

Course Coverage

• The historical context of 16th and 17th century Spain
• Daily life, customs, and social structures during the Golden Age
• Economic systems and societal hierarchies
• Political landscape, religious influences, and the role of the Inquisition
• Golden Age literature, including works by Cervantes, Lope de Vega, and others
• Visual arts and architecture of the period
• The global influence of Spanish culture during this era
• Iconography of Don Quixote and its significance

Who This Course Is For

• History enthusiasts interested in Spanish and European history
• Literature lovers, especially those fascinated by "Don Quixote" and Golden Age Spanish literature
• Students of Spanish language and culture seeking to deepen their understanding
• Art and architecture aficionados curious about the Baroque and Renaissance periods
• Anyone interested in understanding the roots of modern Western civilization

Real-World Applications

• Enhanced cultural understanding for travel to Spain or Latin America
• Improved analysis of historical texts and artworks
• Better comprehension of Spanish literature and its global influence
• Deeper insights into the development of Western political and social structures
• Ability to draw parallels between historical events and contemporary issues
• Improved critical thinking skills through analysis of primary sources

Syllabus

1. Introduction: Time and Space
2. Daily Life
3. Economy and Society
4. Politics, Religion, and the Inquisition
5. Literature
6. Fine Arts
7. The Iconography of Don Quixote

This comprehensive course offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in one of the most fascinating periods of European history, providing you with valuable insights that will enrich your understanding of literature, art, and the foundations of our modern world.