Course Description

Similar to courses on canonical writers like Shakespeare, Milton, and Chaucer, this course explores the work by another literary great: Rudolfo Anaya. Commonly known as the “Godfather of Chicano Literature,” Anaya’s repertoire spans a wide variety of genres, including novels, plays, poetry, short stories, and essays. Like much Chicana/o/x cultural production, Anaya’s work explores themes of bilingualism, belonging, homeland, and mythology. We will not only focus on the literary elements of his work, but also we will consider the history and geography that shaped his work. We will also examine how his work changed over his career, which began at the height of the Chicano Movement and ends with the publication of his posthumous books in 2022. This course is for students who love literature, New Mexico, and culture.

Texts

Bless Me, Última

Tortuga

Albuquerque

Rio Grande Fall

Curse of the Chupacabra

Additional readings will be posted on Canvas

Requirements

Students will be expected to read five full-length works and two children’s books; read essays and poetry posted on Canvas; participate in discussions during class; analyze poetry, artwork, theater, and film in class; lead a class discussion with a group; complete two essays based on readings; and complete a final project. 

About the Instructor(s): Myrriah Gomez