The goal of this course is to expose students to different aspects
of Brazilian culture and society.  Students will read and be engaged
in discussions about a broad range of topics drawn from fictional
and non-fictional readings, films, music, and popular culture.  The
first part of the course is a historical overview of the different
peoples who compose the Brazilian nation – the Portuguese, the
Indian, the African and, later, the immigrants.  The second part of
the course examines issues dealing with economic and power
inequalities in Brazil.  Emphasis will be placed on one of the most
underdeveloped area of the country, the “sertão” (the backlands).
The last part of the course explores different cultural and
religious manifestations and their place in the construction of the
Brazilian identity.  Five full length movies will be shown on Monday
nights during the semester.  Note: This course is joint-listed with
HISP-P290 and LTAM-L200.