Spanish

Course summary

Aspects of Spanish-speaking society: current trends a) Family and relationships (marriage and partnerships; different models of family; change in the family structure; attitudes towards marriage and divorce; the influence of the catholic church. b) The Digital World: Internet and the dangers/risks; social networks; digitalization of society – smartphones and uses. c) Equality of the sexes – the role of the men/women/LGBT rights. Artistic culture in the Spanish-speaking world a) The influence of Idols: the influence of idols – singers, TV/film stars, and models. b) Regional Identity of Spain; festivals and traditions; origins of festivals and their importance in Spanish society;; diversity of festivals and traditions in different regions of the Spanish-speaking world; gastronomy; languages. c) The cultural heritage: historic sites and pre-Hispanic civilizations; art and architecture; musical heritage and its diversity. Multiculturalism in Hispanic society a) Immigration: The benefits & negative aspects; immigration in the Hispanic world; the problems of the ‘undocumented’. b) Racism: racist and xenophobic attitudes; measures to combat racism; the anti-racist legislation. c) Integration: integration with different cultures; education; religions.