Mare Nostrum

Mare Nostrum: A Mediterranean Introduction to Spain’s Character, Culture, and Civilization (Taught in Spanish)

Mare Nostrum (Our Sea) introduces students to Spanish culture with an emphasis on the heritage of the Mediterranean. Mediterranean means, literally, the sea between lands, and this land-locked body of water has helped unite the countries that string its shores. The terms Mediterranean and Mediterranean consciousness are currently applied to food, literature, architecture, fashion, lifestyles and social mores. Some have even said that Spain is essentially more Mediterranean than European. Focusing on three major Mediterranean areas along the famous Spanish Riviera (the Costa Brava in Cataluna, the Balearic island of Mallorca, and the Costa Blanca in Valencia), the seminar explores the cities, their monuments, environments, histories, and contributions to the formation of contemporary Spain. On-site visits and guest lectures will supplement faculty lectures in Barcelona, Gerona and Figueras, Palma de Mallorca and environs, and in Valencia proper and the Albufera. You must have upper-intermediate or advanced Spanish language proficiency (four semesters college-level Spanish or higher) to enroll in Mare Nostrum. Course evaluation is based on participation, quizzes, journals, and a final examination. Later in the semester, Mare Nostrum participants will take an All-School Excursion to Southern Spain. Note: Option 2 students are required to enroll in the Mare Nostrum seminar.

Details

  • Sites:
    La Costa Brava, Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, and Valencia.
  • Length:
    15 days
  • Course Number:
    SPA 300.4 (Spanish)
  • Credits:
    Two. May not be taken as an audit. An optional third credit is available upon enrollment in SPA 300.5 al Andalus, Its Words and Letters. Enrollment in SPA 300.5 is limited to 25 students.
  • Enrollment Limit:
    46 students
  • Requirements:
    This seminar is designed for students with good Spanish language skills. Upperintermediate or advanced Spanish (four semesters college-level Spanish or more) is required.
  • Additional Program Fee:
    Mare Nostrum carries a $440 fee, which will be billed to your student account. Breakfasts and one meal per day are included in the program, but students should budget approximately $150-$200 for additional meals.
  • Professors:
    • Ramon Buckley
      Professor of Spanish Literature and Peninsular Studies
    • Carmen Fleta
      Professor of Spanish Language and Culture
    • Maria Teresa Vinuelas
      Professor of Spanish Language and Conversation