This course focuses on literature, music and culture of certain ethnic groups inhabiting the Andean region of South America including, but not limited to, the Aymara and Quechua peoples, their cosmovision and their languages. Through literary texts belonging to different genres, and through films, special attention is placed on expressions of syncretism in seasonal festivals in which pre-Hispanic, European, and African music traditions and religions were shaped due to forced migration, wars and colonization. A strong emphasis on the ecological regions of the nations that share the Andean mountain range contextualizes current indigenous movements of resistance against the degradation of its environment and the impact on its culture.
4
UnitsOptional
Grading1, 2, 3
PasstimeNone
Level LimitLetters and science
CollegeGaslight Gatekeep Girlboss iykyn
She may have been a little harsh in the past but I think she did it because she cares for her students and wants the best for us. She is so much more accommodating now and quite honestly really funny. I have never met a more compassionate professor. That is why I have taken over 7 different courses with her. Don't listen to bad reviews.
She would gaslight her students. Did not explain the material being taught and would assign excess materials to go over. If students would ask questions she would get upset they did not already know the answer. It was not a safe environment to learn in. Overall, the courses consisted of 3 group projects.
Unnecessary work made this class fast-paced. Movie, readings and practice to do before Tuesday every week that wouldn't tie to anything, and tests combined into group projects. Important group projects, hard to get a good grade unless the project was pretty and everyone put in a lot of work. Gaucho Space was highly emphasized but hard to navigate.
Took this class and learned so much that I have been able to apply what I learned to other courses for the Spanish major. Very accommodating but you need to communicate with her if not she won't be able to help you. Textbooks and novels are used in class but you can find them for free online. Section for this class is super helpful!
S20. Amongst the circumstances of the quarter, Profesora Gonzales-Smith was very accommodating. She shortened her lectures after a few weeks, made sure to give us longer windows for the midterms, and was very accessible to us. She's funny, witty, lots of personality! She is very direct, though. Go to her to get clarifications! Readings a must.