Course Description: In this one-of-a-kind 5-week course, advanced students will enjoy a brief introduction to the Spanish conquest of Mexico, shedding light on this pivotal moment in world history which initiated the birth of the Mexican nation. In the Western world, the historiography of these events has always favored the conquerors’ version and has rarely taken into account the experience of the native cultures of America. The purpose of this course is for students to become familiar with some of the most significant aspects of the war of conquest from the perspective of the people who endured it.
The rich course material - including extracts from the most important manuscripts and indigenous writings of the era translated to Spanish from nahuatl, engaging articles by modern historians, and guided group discussions about this fascinating history - will lead students to discover a deeper and more human understanding of all that the conquest of Mexico represented.
Taught exclusively in Spanish, this course will help advanced students continue to polish their comprehension and speaking skills while providing essential knowledge for anyone interested in learning about the origins of Mexican culture and its principal manifestations.
Best suited for: Students who’ve completed at least Spanish Intermediate 4 or equivalent.
Duration:
5 weeks (1 class/week)