Course aims: to identify trends in and approaches to the contemporary Latin American novel, with specific reference to the following:

After introductory consideration of critical and theoretical issues in reading (and selling) the Latin American Novel at the turn of the century, we will consider these issues in relation to four recent novels by novelists with international reputations. Tutor-led sessions on each of these novels will address ways of reading the texts, in relation to reception of the authors and the novels themselves, and the metanarratives they imply. The student-led sessions will be prepared in conjunction with the course tutor. Each group will be expected to prepare bibliography and research their chosen author/novel in relation to the categories and issues identified above. Attention should be paid to aspects of the novels which, when compared with the earlier career of each author, might suggest a paradigm shift or different aesthetic or market concerns. Students are encouraged to read the novels in the context of perceived trends in Latin American narrative in the 1980s and 1990s, including texts from other courses in Hispanic Studies. 

The course presupposes familiarity with the 'Boom' novels and authors. If you did not attend the HispM225 course in second year, please make sure you read Cien años de soledad and García Márquez's Nobel prize address on 'The Solitude of Latin America' in preparation for HispM460.

Assessment: 

One 3000-word coursework essay, relating to the topics addressed in the teacher-led sessions. (Essay titles). (40%of mark). The essay may be handed in at the General Office  (MT 4th Floor) on either 17th December or 7th January (3pm). It must be anonymised.

One timed assignment to take place in the final teaching period, consisting of a short review or a review of representative criticism and a pre-researched essay. Each group will provide an essay title on their author at the end of their presentation. (60%) 

Further Information

Course Structure

Autumn Term 2001

For session one, please read one or more of the following: N. Larsen, Introduction to Reading North by South; A. Fuguet/S. Gómez, 'Presentación del país McOndo', McOndo; C. Boullosa, Cielos en la tierra, commentary on Cien años de soledad and 'el sueño del Sueño'. 

Suggested Reading