LAPI 928 - Franco’s Spain: An Open Wound

This course begins with an exploration of the historical, social, political, and religious factors that led to the Spanish Civil War and the dictatorship of Franco. Its emphasis then shifts to the effect of Franco’s victory on Spanish art and on the art of Republican sympathizers from other countries. Included are the three major Spanish painters of the period (Picasso, Dali, and Miro), the major playwright of the period (Garcia Lorca), the major poets of the period (Unamuno, Cernuda, Machado, Jimenez, de Biedma, Montalban), and prominent sympathizers from the U.S. (Ernest Hemingway, Langston Hughes). Also addressed are the yet unresolved issues of Basque separatism and Catalan independence – issues that Franco exacerbated with violent suppression. Two films from the 21st century – Manuel Gutierrez Aragon’s Visionarios and Miguel Courois’ El Lobo – offer insight into the aftermath of Franco’s dictatorship and how its effects still haunt Spanish culture.

Prerequisites & Notes
Prerequisite: LACR 102

Credits: 3 cr, 3 hrs