ABOUT THE COURSE This course will examine the colonial history of the American continent as interpreted through the various historical accounts written by eyewitnesses of the conquest. We will cover two centuries of writings from the late fifteenth to the seventeenth century. We will examine many relaciones or historical accounts of the conquest, letters, documents, poetry and other historical artifacts to learn of the social, political, religious and economical significance of the colonial era. There has been much debate regarding the conquest of the Americas and it is my hope that by reading and discussing primary texts that we as a class may “discover” our own conclusions and feel confident with our individual interpretations of the events. Beginning with Christopher Columbus, the trajectory of this course will take us through the conquest and so-called pacification of the natives of what is now Mexico, the Andes and other regions of Latin America. Ultimately, the purpose of this class is to critically examine the literature of the conquest in hopes that it will force us to reexamine the world around us. Professor: Zane U. Segle Class: MWF – 1100-1150 Capers Hall: 222 Office: Bond Hall 150 Office Hours: MW – 1300-1500 Email: [email protected] Texts: Texts provided by Dr. Segle KEYS TO SUCCESS This course will require consistent attention and effort. Your success in this class will depend on doing the reading, participating in class discussions and completing of homework. COURSEWORK Participation………..20% Presentations……….10% Essays……………...30% Exams.……………..20% Final Exam………….20% ADDITIONAL NOTES If you find yourself in the unique situation where you will miss class or you’re unable to turn in an assignment, it is your responsibility to inform the professor within 24 hours of class with an explanation. The professor reserves the right to evaluate the circumstances and the explanation in order to determine if the student merits special consideration. The professor reserves the right to modify any aspect the syllabus. During class, the professor likewise reserves the right to dismiss any student whose behavior negatively affects the class. Such a dismissal is an absence. Spanish Colonial Literature Spanish 450