Capstone seminar: Poetry, Marxism and Capitalism in Latin America (New!)
The aim of this course is to inform new generations on the struggle between Capitalism and Marxism that has taken place in Latin America over the years. Exploring this struggle through poetry and different authors that have shaped the XX century: Guevara, Cardenal, Neruda and others, we will journey thorough the socio-political struggles of the continent, from Macchu Picchu to the streets of Buenos Aires, noting how and when poetry was present to confront these historical issues.
Students participation is a given in this workshop type of class, in which writing, filming and/or the presentation of digital interpretations of these wonderful poems, and lyrics bring the material alive. Some of the questions posed are: how does poetry pervade our lives in the Latin America of today? Is there a place for poetry as a historical witness? What can poems do when populations are ostracized by state terror or social terror? This is not a class for conventional thinkers; this is a class meant to explore the beauty of great works now present in films, songs and documentaries. Bring out the poet in you! Join us on this great adventure!