Multicultural Spain: Christian, Jewish and Muslim Coexistence
SPAN 301/ARAB 303/HBRW 303/ETHS 303/RLGN 303
Led by Professors Ramez Islambouli, Barbara Mann, and Damaris Puñales-Alpízar

An important aspect of our class will be the study of multiculturalism. Why is medieval Iberia so often depicted as an example of tolerant multiculturalism? What constituted tolerance in the Middle Ages? In what sense can we speak of medieval multiculturalism? Is Americo Castro’s optimistic model of convivencia (coexistence) valid, or is Brian Catlos’ idea of conveniencia (convenience) more accurate? In this course, we will study cultural theory, medieval and modern historiography, and literature from medieval Castile to approach an understanding of medieval Iberian ‘multiculturalism.’

This class will allow students to get in contact with the history of Spain through the study of the presence and influence of the Roman Empire, the Jewish and Muslim cultures, and religions in the Peninsula. Through literature, cinema and art students will learn how the Spanish civilization and culture developed through the years. The class will be offered during a regular semester, with a study abroad component at the end of it. Students will receive a handout about how to prepare for the class abroad. Counts as a CAS Global & Cultural Diversity course. 

Program fee includes: lodging, ground transportation, and activities.

Contact: damaris.punales-alpizar@case.edu for information.

Apply: http://studyabroad.case.edu/.