Courses
- All cadets who enter with two or more entrance units in a modern foreign language are given placement tests and are placed in appropriate courses on the basis of the test results, their previous high school language coursework, and after consultation with the department head of modern languages.
- A single year of a foreign language shall count toward meeting graduation requirements only when the cadet is studying a second language or is taking a language as an elective.
- Classroom work is supplemented with computer-aided language instruction in a well-equipped Language Learning Center.
Prerequisites: Cadets must demonstrate proficiency in ML 101 in order to be admitted into ML 102. They must, similarly, demonstrate proficiency in ML 102 before enrolling in ML 201, and in ML 201 before enrolling in ML 202/204. Proficiency in ML 202/204 is a prerequisite for admission to 300-level courses. Completion of two 300-level courses or their equivalent is expected before enrollment in any 400 -level course. Once a cadet has completed work at the 202/204 level, he/she may not return to the elementary level course for credit.
Cadets who present three or more years of a high school language or demonstrate native or near-native language abilities may not enroll at the elementary level of that language. Such students will have the choice of enrolling either in the first semester intermediate level of that language or in the first semester elementary course of a different language.
INTERNSHIP (for all languages)
ML 311. MODERN LANGUAGE AND CULTURE INTERNSHIP
0—0—3
Cadets work as interns in a modern language and culture setting where the modern language they are studying is the principal tongue. Fields may include, but are not limited to, education, industry, government agencies, and non-government agencies. Cadet interns will be expected to submit interim progress reports and a final report, all written in the principal language. Under the guidance of a faculty sponsor, who may confer with the representative of the sponsoring organization, the cadet will decide on a suitable project worthy of academic credit. Prerequisites: open only to first and second class MC cadets; permission of the department head and the faculty sponsor; six hours of junior (300) level course work in the principal language, preferably composition and conversation.
ML 355 AND 356.
ML 455 AND 456. SUMMER RESEARCH IN MODERN LAGUAGES AND CULTURES
(3 credits each)
The above sequence of four courses offers opportunities to qualified students for independent study and research into the national literatures and cultures of the Arabic-, French-, German-, Spanish-, and Japanese-speaking countries of the world. Under faculty supervision, the student will conduct research leading to the composition of one or more pieces of significant, original writing. Prerequisites: Permission of the department head and the faculty research adviser; a sound reading knowledge of the principal language; and the ability to synthesize material from original literary and secondary sources, some of which must be written in the principal language. Eligibility: students have completed at least 6 hours of composition/writing intensive courses at the junior (300) level in the modern language.
ML498. READING FOR THE HONORS THESIS IN MODERN LANGUAGES AND CULTURES
3—0—3
Cadets will establish a topic for their Honors Thesis with the supervision of a faculty adviser. They will outline the scope of the research, a method of approach and a bibliography of works to be read for the Thesis. The cadet will present the above to the faculty mentor for Departmental approval.
ML 499. WRITING COURSE FOR THE HONORS THESIS IN MODERN LANGUAGES AND CULTURES
0—0—3
The cadet will address the writing process for the Honors Thesis and establish a schedule of drafts for each chapter. The faculty mentor offers critiques of both method and argument. The project culminates in an oral defense which will be open to the public. Upon successful completion of the project, the cadet will receive Departmental Honors. Open only to Modern Language majors. Prerequisite: successful completion of ML 498.
ARABIC (top)
AR 101. ELEMENTARY ARABIC I
3—0—3
An introduction to the fundamentals of Arabic. Primary emphasis on the acquisition of basic language skills (comprehending, speaking, reading, and writing) within the context of culture and civilizations. Secondary emphasis on the cultures where Arabic is spoken. Intended for beginners with no previous experience in the language.
AR 102. ELEMENTARY ARABIC II
3—0—3
A continuation of AR 101. Prerequisite: AR 101.
AR 201. INTERMEDIATE ARABIC
3—0—3
A continuation and systematic review of structural principles and an introduction to the reading and discussion of cultural materials and texts with the aim of improving the four basic language skills. Conducted as much as possible in Arabic. Prerequisite AR 102.
AR 202. INTERMEDIATE ARABIC
3—0—3
A continuation of AR 201 with emphasis on writing. This course is intended to consolidate the basic language skills and to prepare the student for advanced work in Arabic. Conducted as much as possible in Arabic. Readings based on civilization and culture. Prerequisite: AR 201.
AR 301W. ARABIC COMPOSITION AND CONVERSATION
3—0—3
Designed to improve students’ spoken and written command of Arabic. Discussions, oral reports, and writing assignments include topics in Arabic civilizations and cultural history. Conducted mainly in Arabic. Prerequisite AR 202.
AR 302W. ARABIC COMPOSITION AND CONVERSATION
3—0—3
A continuation of AR 301W. Prerequisite: AR 301W.
AR 314. ARABIC CIVILIZATIONS AND CULTURES
3—0—3
A survey of the history, literature, educational systems and values of the Arab Word. The course will be based on readings from contemporary sources: Short stories, magazines, newspapers, literary works and legal documents. The course is designed to build on the reading and writing skills of AR 301 and AR 302. It is also intended to enhance cadets’ cultural awareness of contemporary issues, which affect the Arabic speaking world and the United States. Prerequisite: AR 301, AR 302.
AR 315. ARABIC FOR THE MEDIA
3—0—3
Emphasizes written and aural comprehension of Arabic media (newspapers, journals, radio and television, news broadcasts, and documentaries). The goal is to introduce and consolidate lexical items which commonly occur in the media and in economic and scientific texts. The principal language of instruction is Arabic. Prerequisite: Two AR 300’s.
AR 316. TOPICS IN ARABIC
3—0—3
Information and discussion of diverse topics from the Arabic-speaking world. The principal language of instruction is Arabic. Prerequisite: Two AR 300’s. Retakes for credit.
AR 405. INDEPENDENT READINGS
3—0—3
Directed readings of major literary works. Conducted almost exclusively in Arabic. Prerequisite: Completion of at least 9 hours beyond AR 202 or permission of the instructor and department head. Retakes for credit.
AR 407. ADVANCED ARABIC GRAMMAR AND SYNTAX
3—0—3
A systematic study of Arabic grammar and syntax. Emphasis also on vocabulary development and study of idiomatic expression. Prerequisite: Two AR 300’s.
AR 408. ARABIC LITERATURE OF THE 19TH CENTURY
3—0—3
A study of major movements and writers of the 19th century with special emphasis on Romantic poetry and prose. Conducted in Arabic. Emphasis on developing reading and writing skills. A research paper is required. Prerequisite: Two AR 300’s.
AR 409. ARABIC LITERATURE OF THE 20TH CENTURY
3—0—3
A study of major writers and poets of the 20th century with special emphasis on Naguib Mahfouz’s Trilogy. A research paper is required. Prerequisite: Two AR 300’s.
AR 410. ADVANCED ARABIC
3—0—3
Aimed at cadet acquisition of proficiency in Modern Standard Arabic. Audiovisual materials and authentic Arabic Texts will be the main sources of study. Students will be exposed to and expected to master a wide range of different texts, including excerpts from the Qur’an, newspaper articles, classical poetry and prose, modern fiction, and essays. Prerequisite: Two AR 300s.
AR 418. ARABIC FOR BUSINESS
3—0—3
An introduction to Business Arabic. Includes a review of the grammar and syntax of the Arabic language. The study of Arabic texts relevant to business and management practices in different Arab counties will provide cadets with a general cultural background of Arabic countries. Prerequisite: Two AR 300’s.
AR 420. ARABIC POETRY
3—0—3
A survey of Arabic poetry from the advent of Islam to the present. Excerpts from the major works of prominent poets are studied for form and historical significance. Conducted in Arabic. Research paper required. Prerequisite: Two AR 300s.
AR 450. MODERN LANGUAGE CAPSTONE COURSE
3—0—3
The student will choose a topic incorporating an analysis of historical, literary or cultural factors in the major language area - field experience and interdisciplinary topics are strongly encouraged. Upon approval of the faculty adviser, the student will prepare both a research paper and a 20-minute oral presentation. This course is only open to first and second class Modern Language majors or minors. The ML Capstone project will be written in the student’s major foreign language, as appropriate, and it will achieve a language rating of “Advanced-High”. All relevant documentation will adhere to MLA specifications. An accepted ML Honors Thesis could substitute for this course.
AR 470. SPECIAL TOPICS IN ARABIC
An advanced topics course that will vary to reflect cadet and professorial interest. This course fosters a close reading of text and discussion of diverse topics from the Arab world to reinforce advanced language and cultural knowledge. Prerequisites: Two AR 300s.
AR 481. SURVEY OF MOROCCAN CULTURE AND SOCIETY
3—0—3
A Moroccan history and civilization course during the VMI summer abroad program in Morocco. This course is primarily a culture class designed to educate students on Moroccan history through on-site excursions to historical places of interest with a guided tour. The course includes invited guest lectures by Moroccan academics. Topics cover Moroccan society such as the educational system, government relations, religion, Berber history, superstitions, and gender roles in Morocco among others. This course does not include a foreign language component and cannot be used toward a language requirement.
FRENCH (top)
FR 101. ELEMENTARY FRENCH
3—0—3
An introduction to the fundamentals of French. Primary emphasis on the acquisition of the basic language skills (comprehending, speaking, reading, and writing). Intended for beginners with no previous experience in the language.
FR 102. ELEMENTARY FRENCH
3—0—3
A continuation of FR 101. Integration of French culture through cognitive reading and broader vocabulary. Prerequisite: FR 101.
FR 201. INTERMEDIATE FRENCH
3—0—3
A systematic review of grammar and the readings of texts of significant literary, cultural or historical value. Composition, aural and oral work continued. Prerequisite: FR 102.
FR 202. INTERMEDIATE FRENCH
3—0—3
A continuation of FR 201. Prerequisite: FR 201.
FR 304. FRENCH COMPOSITION AND CONVERSATION
3—0—3
Designed for students who wish to gain a command of spoken and written French. Conducted in French. Prerequisite: FR 202.
FR 305W AND FR 306W. FRENCH THOUGHT ACROSS THE CENTURIES
3—0—3
3—0—3
Survey of French contributions to philosophy, history, science, political theory and belles-lettres from the Middle Ages, to the Existential writers of the XXth Century. All genres, poetry, narrative, exposition, drama as well as the evolution of the language itself. A Writing-Intensive Course requiring regular submission of written compositions and the regular re-writing and editing of such material. Prerequisite: French 202.
FR 314. FRENCH CIVILIZATIONS AND CULTURES
3—0—3
Overview of history, art, politics, geography, educational and legal systems, reigning philosophy of the former colonies of Indochina, Africa, the Caribbean (the DOM-TOM) and Québec. Texts include newspapers, popular media, personal and official documents, literary expression, and film. Spoken and written French exercised. Prerequisite: French 202.
FR 315. INTRODUCTION TO FRANCOPHONIC TEXTS
3—0—3
Builds on reading skills acquired in FR 201 and FR 202 by presenting a variety of texts from many fields of interest: politics, business, literature, history. The language of instruction is French. Emphasis on developing good reading and writing skills. Prerequisite: FR 202.
FR 330. FRENCH MASTERPIECES IN TRANSLATION I
3—0—3
Survey of French contributions to philosophy, history, science, political theory, and belleslettres from the Middle Ages to the Revolution, designed for students with no knowledge of French language. Includes origin and development of the genres: poetry, narrative, exposition, drama. Regular submission of compositions and re-writing and editing of such material. This course follows the outline of French 305W though availability of readable translations dictates the choice of texts. This course does not include a foreign language component and cannot be used toward a language requirement. Prerequisite: WR 102 with a minimum grade of C. Cadets may not earn credit for both FR 330 and FR 305W.
FR 331. FRENCH MASTERPIECES IN TRANSLATION II
3—0—3
Survey of French contributions to philosophy, history, science, political theory, and belles lettres from Romanticism to the present, designed for students with no knowledge of the French language. Continued development of the genres: poetry, narrative, exposition, drama. Regular submission of compositions and the regular re-writing and editing of such material. This course follows the outline of French 306W though availability of readable translations dictates the choice to texts. This course does not include a foreign language component and cannot be used toward a language requirement. Prerequisite: WR 102 with a minimum grade of C. Cadets may not earn credit for both FR 331 and FR 306W.
FR 405 AND FR 406. INDEPENDENT READING
3—0—3
Directed readings of major literary works, written reports and a research paper required. Taught in French. At least one research paper is required. Prerequisite: permission of the Department Head. Retakes for credit.
FR 409. STYLISTICS IN FRENCH
3—0—3
Recapitulation of grammar with emphasis on expansion of vocabulary, development of style in speaking and writing. Materials used will be film, journalism, exposition, interviews, broadcast media, and other sources. Prerequisite: Two 300-level French courses.
FR 410. NARRATIVE AND EXPOSITION IN FRENCH
3—0—3
A study of narration in French, from Medieval epics and early French story-telling through Montaigne and Flaubert, Shendhal, Robbe-Grillet, Perec. Political theory and philosophical and scientific writings as well as tracts by moralists like Pascal or Descartes supplement purely fictional accounts. Extensive reading and analytical writing about these documents. Prerequisite: Two 300-level French courses.
FR 411. DRAMA AND FILM IN FRENCH
3—0—3
A study of dramatic modes in French, from Medieval through the Neo-Classical to the modern théatre de l’absurde and into the XXth Century. Extensive use of film versions of plays under study. Extensive reading and analytical writing about these documents. Prerequisite: Two 300-level French courses.
FR 412. FRENCH POETRY AND POPULAR MUSIC
3—0—3
A study of French verse, from the Middle Ages through the Renaissance and XVIIth Century to modern manifestations of poetry: vers libres, symbolisme, l’art pour l’art. Brel, Piaf, Gainsbourg, Vian. Prerequisite: Two 300-level French courses.
FR 413. FRANCOPHONE OR NON-CONTINENTAL FRENCH
3—0—3
A study of expression in French, including works from (the Maghreb), Black Africa, Indochina, Canada and Louisiana, and the Caribbean Basin. Prerequisite: Two French courses at 300-level.
FR 414. THEMES, FIGURES, PERIODS, REGIONS
3—0—3
Detailed study of French culture, society, or history (colonialism, revolution, race, proto-science, economic and political theory), a given author through study of all his or her works (Beauvoir, Duras, Gide St-Expupéry, Joan of Arc, Napolean), a period of innovation in theory of creation (Symbolism, Existentialism, Renaissance, Exploration), or an area of particular interest (French Caribbean). Prerequisite: Two 300-level French courses.
FR 450. MODERN LANGUAGE CAPSTONE COURSE
3—0—3
The student will choose a topic incorporating an analysis of historical, literary or culturalfactors in the major language area - field experience and interdisciplinary topics are strongly encouraged. Upon approval of the faculty adviser, the student will prepare both a research paper and a 20-minute oral presentation. This course is open to first and second class Modern Language majors or minors. The ML Capstone project will be written in the student’s major foreign language, as appropriate, and it will achieve a language rating of “Advanced-High”. All relevant documentation will adhere to MLA specifications. An accepted ML Honors Thesis could substitute for this course.
FR 470. SPECIAL TOPICS IN FRENCH
3—0—3
An advanced topics course that will vary to reflect cadet and professorial interests. This course fosters a close reading of text and discussion of diverse topics from the French world to reinforce advanced language and cultural knowledge. Prerequisite: Two 300-level French courses or their equivalent.
GERMAN (top)
GR 101. ELEMENTARY GERMAN
3—0—3
An introduction to the fundamentals of German. Primary emphasis on the acquisition of the basic language skills (comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing). Secondary emphasis on the cultures where German is spoken. Intended for beginners with no previous experience in the language.
GR 102. ELEMENTARY GERMAN
3—0—3
A continuation of GR 101. Prerequisite: GR 101.
GR 201. INTERMEDIATE GERMAN
3—0—3
Reviews principles of grammar and expands the student’s conversational skills. This course is intended to consolidate the basic language skills and to prepare the student for advanced work in German. Readings based on civilization and culture. Prerequisite GR 102.
GR 202. INTERMEDIATE GERMAN
3—0—3
A continuation of GR 201. Prerequisite: GR 201.
GR 303W. INTRODUCTION TO CONTEMPORARY GERMAN CULTURE
3—0—3
A study of contemporary German issues including cultural events, travel, economy, politics, education, transportation, and public opinion. Prerequisite: GR 202. Writing Intensive (W).
GR 304W. INTRODUCTION TO CONTEMPORARY GERMAN CULTURE II
3—0—3
A study of contemporary German issues focusing on economy and German for business. Prerequisite: GR 202. Writing Intensive (W).
GR 307. LITERATURE SURVEY (1100-1700)
3—0—3
Authors and works include: the Nibelungenlied, Hartmann von Aue, Martin Luther, Hans Sachs, Andreas Gryphius and others. Prerequisite: GR 202.
GR 308. LITERATURE FROM THE ENLIGHTENMENT TO REVOLUTION
3—0—3
This course treats the literature and philosophy of the Enlightenment, classicism (Goethe, Schiller), romanticism (Kleist, Grimm) and the Zensur that led up to the 1848 revolution. Prerequisite: GR 202.
GR 316. TOPICS IN GERMAN
3—0—3
A topics course that varies to reflect cadet and professorial interests. The goal of this course is to provide information and foster discussion of diverse topics from the German-speaking world and to reinforce the language skills of all cadets enrolled. The language of instruction is German. Prerequisite: GR 202. Retakes for credit.
GR 405 AND GR 406. SEMINAR IN GERMAN LITERATURE
3—0—3
3—0—3
Directed readings of major literary works; written reports and a research paper required. Taught in German. Prerequisite: permission of the department head. Retakes for credit.
GR 411. VIENNA, BERLIN, AND BETWEEN: GERMANY AND AUSTRIA FROM 1911-1950
3—0—3
A study of Hermann Hesse, Robert Musil, Ernst von Salomon, Hugo von Hofmannsthal, among others. This course focuses on how Austrians and Germans saw the world during the first half of the 20th century. Prerequisite: 6 hours of 300 level German.
GR 412. GERMAN ON BOTH SIDES OF THE IRON CURTAIN
3—0—3
A continuation of GR 411. Students will study the unique situation of the two Germanys during the Cold War. Emphasis on Heinrich Böll and Ulrich Plenzdorf. Prerequisite: 6 hours of 300 level German.
GR 413. GERMANY AND THE MILITARY
3—0—3
This course treats depictions of military life and war in literature with emphasis on German traditions and attitudes. Authors include Erich Maria Remarque and Hans Hellmuth Kirst. Prerequisite: 6 hours of 300 level German.
GR 420W. ADVANCED CONVERSATION AND COMPOSITION
3—0—3
Students examine, discuss, and debate current events of political and military topics, such as the restructuring and deployment of the Bundesweht and Germany’s role in the European Union. E-portfolios will constitute an important part of this course. Prerequisite: 6 hours of 300 level German. Writing Intensive (W).
GR 421. IMMIGRATION TO AND FROM GERMANY SINCE 1850
3—0—3
Readings will focus on immigration to the New World, starting in the 19th century, and the influx of immigrants to Germany after World War II. Prerequisite: 6 hours of 300 level German.
GR 450. MODERN LANGUAGE CAPSTONE COURSE
3—0—3
The student will choose a topic incorporating an analysis of historical, literary or cultural factors in the major language area - field experience and interdisciplinary topics are strongly encouraged. Upon approval of the faculty adviser, the student will prepare both a research paper and a 20-minute oral presentation. This course is required of all Modern Language majors and is only open to first and second class Modern Language majors. The ML Capstone project will be written in the student’s major foreign language, as appropriate, and it will achieve a language rating of “Advanced-High”. All relevant documentation will adhere to MLA specifications. An accepted ML Honors Thesis could substitute for this course.
JAPANESE (top)
JP 101. ELEMENTARY JAPANESE
3—0—3
An introduction to the fundamentals of Japanese. Primary emphasis on the acquisition of the basic language skills (comprehending, speaking, reading, and writing). Intended for beginners with no previous experience in the language.
JP 102. ELEMENTARY JAPANESE
3—0—3
A continuation of JP 101. Prerequisite: JP 101.
JP 201. INTERMEDIATE JAPANESE
3—0—3
A continuation and systematic review of structural principles and an introduction to the reading and discussion of authentic materials and cultural texts with the aim of improving the four basic language skills. Prerequisite: JP 102.
JP 202. INTERMEDIATE JAPANESE
3—0—3
A continuation of JP 201 with emphasis on writing. This course is intended to consolidate the basic language skills and to prepare the student for advanced work in Japanese. Prerequisite: JP 201.
JP 301. JAPANESE COMPOSITION AND CONVERSATION
3—0—3
Designed to improve students’ spoken and written command of Japanese. Discussions, oral reports, and writing assignments include topics in Japanese culture and civilization. Conducted in Japanese. Prerequisite: JP 202.
JP 302. JAPANESE COMPOSITION AND CONVERSATION
3—0—3
A continuation of JP 301. Prerequisite: JP 301.
JP 370. SPECIAL TOPICS IN JAPANESE
3—0—3
Prerequisite: JP 202. Retakes for credit.
JP 450. MODERN LANGUAGE CAPSTONE COURSE
3—0—3
The student will choose a topic incorporating an analysis of historical, literary or cultural factors in the major language area - field experience and interdisciplinary topics are strongly encouraged. Upon approval of the faculty adviser, the student will prepare both a research paper and a 20-minute oral presentation. This course is only open to first and second class Modern Language majors or minors. The ML Capstone project will be written in the student’s major foreign language, as appropriate, and it will achieve a language rating of “Advanced-High”. All relevant documentation will adhere to MLA specifications. An accepted ML Honors Thesis could substitute for this course.
JP 470. ADVANCED JAPANESE
3—0—3
Designed to improve comprehension of written and spoken Japanese. Includes study of literary and non-literary readings. Prerequisite: JP 302 and one other 300 level class. Retakes for credit.
JP 471W. A CONTINUATION OF JP 470
3—0—3
A continuation of JP 470. Designed to improve comprehension of written and spoken Japanese. Literary and non-literary works studied. Prerequisite: JP 302 and one other 300 level class. Retakes for credit. Writing Intensive (W).
SPANISH (top)
SP 101. ELEMENTARY SPANISH
3—0—3
An introduction to the fundamentals of Spanish. Primary emphasis on the acquisition of the basic language skills (comprehending, speaking, reading, and writing) within the context of civilization and culture. Secondary emphasis on the culture where Spanish is spoken. Intended for beginners with no previous experience in the language.
SP 102. ELEMENTARY SPANISH
3—0—3
A continuation of SP 101. Prerequisite: SP 101.
SP 201. INTERMEDIATE SPANISH
3—0—3
A systematic review of grammar and the readings of texts of significant literary, cultural or historical value. Composition, aural and oral work continued. Prerequisite: SP 102.
SP 202. INTERMEDIATE SPANISH
3—0—3
A continuation of SP 201. Prerequisite: SP 201.
SP 204. INTERMEDIATE SPANISH FOR BUSINESS
3—0—3
A study of simple Spanish texts relevant to business and management practices as well as general social aspects of the Spanish-speaking world provides a cultural and technical background. Students who successfully complete SP 204 will receive credit for fourth-semester Spanish (equivalent to SP 202). Prerequisite: SP 201 or SP 203.
SP 299X. SUMMER ABROAD IN SPAIN
3—0—3
A summer cultural immersion study in Spain that includes language instruction appropriate with the individual student’s level. All coursework is in English, although students receive some instruction in basic Spanish expression to help them complete the learning modules. This course is not applicable towards a foreign language requirement stipulated by various majors. It is only offered in some summers. Prerequisite: None. Civilizations and Cultures (X).
SP 303W. SPANISH COMPOSITION AND CONVERSATION
3—0—3
Designed for students who wish to gain a command of spoken and written Spanish. Taught in Spanish. Prerequisite: SP 202 or SP 204. Writing Intensive (W).
SP 305. SURVEY OF SPANISH LITERATURE
3—0—3
A survey of Spanish literature from the beginning through the 17th century, with selected readings from the major authors, literary movements, and genres. Conducted in Spanish. Prerequisite: SP 202 or SP 204.
SP 306. SURVEY OF SPANISH AMERICAN LITERATURE
3—0—3
A survey of Spanish American literature with selected readings from the major authors, literary movements, and genres. Taught in Spanish. Prerequisite SP 202 or SP 204.
SP 307W SPANISH FOR RESEARCH
3—0—3
An introductory course in research methods for Spanish majors or minors. Emphasis on research methodology using both Spanish- and English-language materials and the production of a full-length research paper. Cadets will be introduced to academic writing in Spanish and methods of publication in languages and literatures. Conducted in Spanish. Prerequisite: one 300-level course. Writing Intensive (W).
SP 311WX. HUMAN RIGHTS AND THE HISPANIC WRITER
3—0—3
Human Rights as seen by Spanish, Latin American, and U.S. Hispanic writers. Texts include essay, narrative, poetry, film, fine art, and other cultural media. Prerequisite: Completion of SP 202 or SP 202X, SP 204 or SP 204X and completion of WR 102 with a minimum grade of C. Writing Intensive (W), Civilizations and Cultures (X).
SP 312. CULTURE AND CIVILIZATION OF SPAIN
3—0—3
A study of Spain’s cultural identity from prehistoric to contemporary times including artistic, literary, political, and societal artifacts. Taught in Spanish. Prerequisite: SP 202 or SP 204.
SP 313. ADVANCED SPANISH GRAMMAR
3—0—3
A study of Spanish grammar and syntax with special emphasis on the study of idiomatic expressions. Readings incorporate grammatical review of more challenging structures that prepare students for advanced work. Prerequisite: Completion of SP 202 or SP 204.
SP 314. LATIN AMERICAN CULTURES AND CIVILIZATIONS
3—0—3
An overview of the history, art, literature, society, educational and legal systems, and values of Latin America. Texts chosen from newspapers, original documents. Emphasis on Writing and Conversation. Taught in Spanish. Prerequisite: SP 202 or SP 204.
SP 315. INTRODUCTION TO HISPANIC TEXTS
3—0—3
A course designed to build on the reading skills acquired in intermediate Spanish by presenting texts drawn from many fields of interest: politics, business, literature, history. Taught in Spanish. Emphasis will be placed on reading and writing skills. Prerequisite: SP 202 or SP 204.
SP 316. TOPICS IN SPANISH
3—0—3
The topics will vary to reflect cadet and professorial interests. The goal of this course is to provide information and foster discussion of diverse topics from the Hispanic world and to reinforce language skills. Taught in Spanish. Prerequisite: SP 202 or SP 204. Retakes for credit.
SP 318. NOBEL LAUREATES
3—0—3
An introduction to the writings of major authors of the 20th century Hispanic literature. Students gain an overview of Spanish and Latin American Nobel Prize winners and read drama, poetry, narrative, and essay. Emphasizes speaking and writing. Taught in Spanish. Prerequisite: SP 202 or SP 204.
SP 320W. SPANISH GOTHIC LITERATURE
3—0—3
A study of representative Spanish gothic tales with the aim of reinforcing and expanding the basic languages skills of speaking, reading, understanding, and writing. Taught in Spanish. Prerequisite: SP 202 or SP 204. Writing Intensive (W).
SP 322. HISPANIC CINEMA
3—0—3
An introduction to Spanish-language films and Hispanic film directors as well as the cultural, political, economic, and social backgrounds of the films viewed. Taught in Spanish. Prerequisite: SP 202 or SP 204.
SP 387. THE SPANISH CIVIL WAR AS TEXT (IN ENGLISH)
3—0—3
This course focuses on the cultural production of the Spanish Civil War. Cadets analyze Spanish cultural perspectives regarding the conflict using classical modes of writing and technology. This course does not include a foreign language component and cannot be used toward a language requirement. Prerequisite: WR 102 with a minimum grade of C. Cadets may not earn credit for both SP 387 and SP 388.
SP 388. THE SPANISH CIVIL WAR AS TEXT
3—0—3
This course focuses on the cultural production of the Spanish Civil War. Cadets analyze cultural perspectives regarding the conflict using classical modes of writing and technology. Prerequisite: SP 202 or SP 204 and WR 102 with a minimum grade of C. Cadets may not earn credit for both SP 387 and SP 388.
SP 399X. SUMMER ABROAD IN SPAIN
3—0—3
A summer cultural immersion study in Spain that includes language instruction at the post-intermediate level. Instruction and coursework are in Spanish. It is only offered in some summers. Prerequisite: SP 202 or SP 204.Civilizations & Cultures (X).
SP 402. SPANISH LITERATURE OF THE SIGLO DE ORO
3—0—3
An introduction to the poetry, prose, and comedia of Spain’s Golden Age. Conducted in Spanish. Research paper required. Prerequisites: two 300-level courses or their equivalent.
SP 405 AND SP 406. READINGS IN HISPANIC LITERATURE
3—0—3
3—0—3
Directed readings of major literary works; written reports and a research paper required. Taught in Spanish. Prerequisite: permission of the department head. Retakes for credit.
SP 409. EARLY SPANISH LITERATURE
3—0—3
A study of medieval Spanish poetry and prose, with an introduction to drama. Conducted in Spanish. Research paper required. Prerequisites: two 300-level SP courses.
SP 411. 19TH CENTURY PENINSULAR LITERATURE
3—0—3
A cross-generational study of 19th century Peninsular works from perspectives of the author (19th century), film-maker (20th century), and reader/viewer (21st century). Readings from all four major literary genres as well as online multimedia assignments focused principally on film adaptations of major works are required. Taught in Spanish. Prerequisite: two 300 level SP courses.
SP 421. COLONIAL SPANISH AMERICAN LITERATURE
3—0—3
A study of important Spanish American authors from the conquest to independence. Taught in Spanish. Research paper required. Prerequisites: two 300-level SP courses.
SP 422. SPANISH AMERICAN LITERATURE OF THE 19TH CENTURY
3—0—3
Literary and philosophical trends from the independence movement to Modernism. Taught in Spanish. Research paper required. Prerequisites: two 300-level SP courses.
SP 423. SPANISH AMERICAN LITERATURE OF THE 20TH CENTURY
3—0—3
Reading and analysis of representative works of the principal Spanish American novelists, poets, and dramatists from Modernism to the present. Taught in Spanish. Research paper required. Prerequisites: two 300-level SP courses.
SP 425. CERVANTES 3—0—3
Study and analysis of Cervantes’ major works, with emphasis on Don Quijote de la Mancha and how Cervantes’ life and personality shaped his literary production. Taught in Spanish. Research paper required. Prerequisites: two 300-level SP courses.
SP 426. CONTEMPORARY SPANISH LITERATURE I
3—0—3
A study of Peninsular literature from 1898 through 1960. Works chosen reflect the literary trends of the era as well as the social and cultural attitudes shaped by historical events. Taught in Spanish. Research paper required. Prerequisites: two 300-level SP courses.
SP 427. CONTEMPORARY SPANISH LITERATURE II
3—0—3
A study of Peninsular literature from the second part of Franco’s dictatorship (c1960) through contemporary times. Works chosen reflect both the literary trends of the era as well as the socio-historical and cultural attitudes of Spain as it underwent the transition from dictatorship to democracy and to membership in the European Economic Community. Taught in Spanish. Prerequisite: Two 300-level SP courses.
SP 428. US LATINO LITERATURE
3—0—3
A study of the literature and culture of the Latino community in the United States. Readings reflect both the linguistic and cultural particularities of the various demographic groups that compromise the U.S. Latino population. Taught in Spanish. Prerequisite: two 300-level courses.
SP 450. MODERN LANGUAGE CAPSTONE COURSE
3—0—3
The student will choose a topic incorporating an analysis of historical, literary or cultural factors in the major language area - field experience and interdisciplinary topics are strongly encouraged. Upon approval of the faculty adviser, the student will prepare both a research paper and a 20-minute oral presentation. This course is only open to first and second class Modern Language majors and minors. The ML Capstone project will be written in the student’s major foreign language, as appropriate, and it will achieve a language rating of “Advanced-High”. All relevant documentation will adhere to MLA specifications. An accepted ML Honors Thesis could substitute for this course.
SP 470. SPECIAL TOPICS IN SPANISH
An advanced topics course that will vary to reflect cadet and professorial interests. This course fosters a close reading of text and discussion of diverse topics from the Hispanic world to reinforce advanced language and cultural knowledge. Prerequisites: two 300-level courses or their equivalent.