Food, Beverages, and Drugs in Latin American Writing and Film

In this course we will map the connection between food, beverages, and drugs on the one hand, and the histories, aesthetics, and cultural identities of Latin America on the other. We will travel from the narratives of discovery and conquest (Garcilaso, Guaman Poma) to the aesthetic representation of food and beverage in modern authors, both as an object of contemplation and as a medium to boost creativity (Lezama, Palés Matos). In more recent times drug production and consumption in Latin America has been the object of both artistic and political representation. (At least two Spanish courses at the 0300 level or above, or by waiver.) 3 hrs. lect./disc.