Portuguese Pop Culture

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

Portugal’s cultural identity has been shaped by a unique interplay of religion, music, and sport—three defining elements encapsulated in the iconic trio: Fado, Futebol, and Fátima. This course explores the historical and contemporary significance of these cultural pillars, examining how they have influenced national identity, collective memory, and social dynamics in Portugal. We will delve into Fado, Portugal’s soulful musical tradition, to understand its role in expressing themes of nostalgia, longing (saudade), and resilience. We will analyze how Futebol (soccer) has transcended sport to become a symbol of national pride and social unity, reflecting class, politics, and globalization. Finally, we will examine the significance of Fátima, one of the most important Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world, as a focal point of Portuguese religiosity and cultural heritage. In the second half of the course, we will shift our focus to Afro-Brazilian influences on contemporary Portuguese culture, exploring how diasporic, colonial legacies, and cultural exchange have shaped Portugal’s modern identity. Through primary sources, music, media, and contemporary debates, students will gain a deeper understanding of Portugal’s evolving cultural identity and the ways in which tradition and modernity intersect in a globalized world. Taught in English.