The Latin American Novel 3305-PLA-OG

The Latin American Novel course delves into eleven pivotal works that have shaped the literary panorama of Latin America. Spanning various countries and periods, these novels provide a window into the historical, cultural, and social dynamics of the region. Through critical reading, analysis, and discussion, students will explore themes such as identity, politics, magical realism, and the interplay between tradition and modernity. The course is structured to foster a comprehensive understanding of the narrative techniques and thematic concerns that distinguish Latin American literature.

Course Schedule and Reading Assignments:
Note: Each novel is accompanied by a link to its English translation and a specific chapter or section for focused reading.
Week 1: Introduction to the Latin American Novel
• Overview of course objectives, themes, and expectations.
Week 2: One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez (Colombia)
• Reading Assignment: Chapters 1-3
• Focus Areas: Introduction to magical realism, the Buendía family, and the mythical town of Macondo.
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Week 3: The House of the Spirits by Isabel Allende (Chile)
• Reading Assignment: Chapters 1-2
• Focus Areas: The interplay of memory, politics, and the generational saga of the Trueba family.
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Week 4: The Death of Artemio Cruz by Carlos Fuentes (Mexico)
• Reading Assignment: Part 1
• Focus Areas: Fragmented narrative structure, identity, and the critique of post-revolutionary Mexico.
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Week 5: The Invention of Morel by Adolfo Bioy Casares (Argentina)
• Reading Assignment: Chapters 1-4
• Focus Areas: Philosophical themes, existentialism, and the intersection of reality and illusion.
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Week 6: Pedro Páramo by Juan Rulfo (Mexico)
• Reading Assignment: Pages 1-30
• Focus Areas: Nonlinear storytelling, themes of death and memory, and the haunting atmosphere of Comala.
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Week 7: Midterm Exam
• Covers material from Weeks 1-6.
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Week 8: The Tunnel by Ernesto Sabato (Argentina)
• Reading Assignment: Chapters 1-10
• Focus Areas: Existential angst, psychological realism, and the mind of the unreliable narrator, Juan Pablo Castel.
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Week 9: Kiss of the Spider Woman by Manuel Puig (Argentina)
• Reading Assignment: Chapters 1-3
• Focus Areas: Political allegory, gender, and the complex relationship between the two main characters.
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Week 10: The Pit by Juan Carlos Onetti (Uruguay)
• Reading Assignment: Chapters 1-2
• Focus Areas: The existential despair of modern urban life, alienation, and the use of fragmented narrative.
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Week 11: Conversation in the Cathedral by Mario Vargas Llosa (Peru)
• Reading Assignment: Part One, Chapters 1-2 (Pages 1-50)
• Focus Areas: Political corruption, class struggle, and the layered narrative style.
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Week 12: The Underdogs by Mariano Azuela (Mexico)
• Reading Assignment: Chapters 1-5
• Focus Areas: Mexican Revolution, critique of heroism, and the futility of violence.
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Week 13: Chronicle of a Death Foretold by Gabriel García Márquez (Colombia)
• Reading Assignment: Entire novel (short)
• Focus Areas: Collective guilt, honor culture, and the interplay of journalism and fiction.
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Week 14: The Kingdom of this World by Alejo Carpentier (Cuba)
• Themes: Colonialism, power, and magic realism.
• Reading Assignment: Parts 1-2.
• Link: The Kingdom of this World (English Translation).
• Discussion Topics: Carpentier’s concept of "the marvelous real."
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Week 15: Final Exam
• Covers material from Weeks 7-13.
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Type of course

general courses

Prerequisites (description)

English language level requirement: B2+ according to A Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

Course coordinators

Luis Miletti

Learning outcomes

Knowlege: upon graduation the student knows
K_W01 subject-specific and methodological specificity of the studied field of knowledge, and is able to develop it creatively and apply it in professional activity and also knows the terminology in the field of literary studies
K_W04 scientific and cultural phenomena in Spanish-speaking countries
Abilities: upon graduation the student is able to
K_U01 use acquired research skills, including the critical analysis of cultural products and social phenomena in the countries of the Spanish language area, synthetize various ideas and views, select methods and develop research tools, present results
K_U02 independently acquire knowledge in the field of study and broaden research skills and take autonomous actions to develop skills and manage their own career
K_U04 use a second foreign language at a minimum level of B2 +
Social competences: upon graduation the student is capable of
K_K01 cooperating within a group, taking on various roles
K_K02 resolving dilemmas related to future profession
K_K03 critically assessing their own knowledge and skills, and also understanding the need for continuous improvement and development;
K_K04 active participation in the culture of the studied region using various forms and media, and working in a team performing various roles

Assessment criteria

Assessment Breakdown:
1. Exams (2) – 70% (35% each)
o Format: A mix of essay questions, short answers, and passage analysis.
o Focus: Critical understanding of themes, literary techniques, and contextual relevance.
o Evaluation Criteria:
 Depth of analysis and originality.
 Use of evidence from the texts.
 Clarity and coherence in argumentation.
2. Homework – 20%
o Format: Weekly assignments that include reading reflections, written responses to prompts, or preparatory research.
o Evaluation Criteria:
 Completion and timeliness.
 Insightfulness of responses.
 Engagement with course material.
3. Class Participation – 10%
o Format: Active involvement in class discussions and activities.
o Evaluation Criteria:
 Frequency and quality of contributions.
 Respect for others’ viewpoints and collaborative engagement.

Practical placement

Additional information

Information on level of this course, year of study and semester when the course unit is delivered, types and amount of class hours - can be found in course structure diagrams of apropriate study programmes. This course is related to the following study programmes:

Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system:

Description of 3305-PLA-OG in USOSweb