Spanish Department
Program Information
The Spanish department offers a balanced program leading to a major in Spanish language and literature. First- and second-year Spanish classes emphasize all aspects of Spanish, speaking as well as reading, writing, grammar, and the cultural context of the language. Both courses are conducted in Spanish. In the second year, emphasis on composition increases, and readings are drawn from a variety of genres. Primary readings in all literature courses are in the original language. The first priority in the upper-division courses is always an informed and accurate reading of each literary text, but this also implies a consideration of the artistic, historical, and cultural context of works, as well as questions of literary history and theory.
Students
who major in Spanish are encouraged to select courses from a variety of
periods in both Peninsular and Latin American literature and to enhance
their studies with appropriate course work in other areas, such as other
literatures, humanities, history, art, and linguistics. They should
also consult with the department to explore options for studying in a
Spanish-speaking country.
For majors and non-majors alike, the Spanish House provides an additional opportunity to practice and learn Spanish in an everyday setting.
Placement
Students who have studied Spanish before coming to Reed and who wish to enroll in Spanish courses should take the Spanish placement examination given every year during orientation week.
Non-Majors
Students majoring in other departments in the Division of Literature and Languages may fulfill the divisional requirement with any of the third- or fourth-year courses.
Course Requirements
Exclusive of work to meet general college and divisional requirements:
- A minimum of six units of literature at the 300 and 400 level. These must include at least two courses in Peninsular Spanish literature and at least two courses in Spanish American literature. At least one course in Peninsular literature and one course in Spanish American literature must cover pre-20th-century texts.
- Competence in Spanish equivalent to Spanish 321.
- Spanish 400.
- Spanish 470.
Recommended but not required:
- Spanish 321.
- French, and/or Latin, and/or another foreign language.
- Humanities 210 and/or 220.
- Latin American history.