Love, Science, Religion and the Pursuit of Criollo Independence in 18th-Century Mexico

3 Credits

Explores the 18th century from the periphery of traditionally studied centers of Enlightenment. By focusing on pre-independence Mexico, we will study the emergence of alternative scientific and religious discourses in an American context that leads to social and political changes at the onset of the 19th century. Students will watch the Mexican telenovela "Alborada" (2005-6), which fictionally explores many of the topics that are relevant for the course. Students will also read a variety of materials on the following subtopics: imperial designs, cultural production, inquisitional realities, medical discourse, individual and political rights, criollo consciousness, etc. All writing and discussion will be in Spanish. Taught in Spanish.