Ways of Belonging in Portuguese Literature

Based on works by twentieth- and twenty-first century Portuguese authors, this course proposes to explore ways in which Portuguese literature presents itself as a spatial practice that shapes a sense of belonging around certain cultural landscapes. Starting from the idea that environmental perceptions are intertwined with cultural legacies, this course aims to trace a journey through a variety of cultural landscapes that link the present to the past and open space for a critical reflection that brings together local solidarities and transformative worldviews. Readings include authors from the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries, such as Camilo Castelo Branco, Antero de Quental, Raul Brandão, Miguel Torga, Agustina Bessa-Luís, Eduardo Lourenço, José Mattoso, Maria Filomena Mónica, Miguel Esteves Cardoso, Álvaro Domingues, Alexandra Lucas Coelho, Hugo Gonçalves, and Djaimilia Pereira de Almeida. We will also look at music, cinema, and visual arts.