Transition in Spain
S06
Sonia Perez Villaneuva
After 40 years of General Franco’s stifling dictatorship (1937–75), Spain’s democratic transition has generated among the Spanish people a variety of emotions and opinions. This course will explore how the Spanish people have given voice (and language) to their views on a democratic transition that has endured an attempted coup (1982), right- and left-wing governments, regional, religious, and ethnic tensions, and what some would call a revolution of social mores. Students will have the opportunity to participate with the instructor in research consisting of interviews and opinion analysis for a range of segments in Spanish society. Students will also analyze the 1978 Constitution, news journals, music, radio and TV programs, cinema, and literature. This class is for Spanish students who will refine their use of language, pronunciation, and intonation through discussion and debate, and who may have an interest in conducting field research in Spain. Advanced level.