1. Latin American Literature
History and Background

2. Latin America
Latin is the base language of Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, and French
For example, in Spanish the word for cave is “cueva,” in Portuguese “cova,” Italian “cava.”
Now you can describe that
in 4 languages!

3. Latin America Latin America is a geographic location
Every nation from Mexico to the tip of South America is considered “Latin America”

4. Four Main Population Groups
Indian
(Native American)
White
Mixed Heritage
Mestizo(a) = Indian and White
Mulatto= Black and White
Black

5. Latin America INTERESTING FACT:
People from Latin America are all Latin, but not all Hispanic
For example, Brazilians speak Portuguese, making them Latin not Hispanic.

6. Languages

7. Use of Metaphor
Like texts of other nations, Latin American stories use many metaphors
Metaphor is the master trope/device.

8. Metaphor & Theme Metaphors help build the theme of a story.
1. Define theme.
2. List an example of a theme from something you’ve read/watched?

9. Latin American Literature: Common Topics
Like many cultures, Latin American stories revolve around universal themes and explore interpersonal relationships.
Roots in legends and myths
Began as oral tradition
Often, Latin American stories have religious or political content.

10. Common Themes: Family and relationship loyalties Poverty Gender Roles
Social Protest & Exploitation
Religion
Magical Realism

11. Family
Family is considered one's strongest bond and loyalty

12. Poverty
Poverty is largely an issue because of the desperate situations in which many Latin American countries find themselves.

13. Gender Roles
Traditionally, older customs and cultural traditions prevail. Women were expected to be obedient and uphold the family honor.

14. Political: social protest and exploitation
Many Latin American countries have gone through periods of social unrest.
Cuba = communism
Dominican Republic = dictatorship

15. Religion: Catholicism
Many Latin American
countries have large
Catholic populations.

16. Magical Realism Magical Realism Dreams, Everyday Magic, Reality
Unexpected,
&
Supernatural
Everyday
Reality
(Regular
Life
Events)
Magical Realism

17. Conclusion
Latin American literature is rich with culture and social commentary.
Themes are based on life experiences
We will use the term “Latin Americans”

18. Exit Slip List 2 things you learned about Latin America from this PPT
List one question you have or something you would like to know more about.

19. HOMEWORK
Benchmark Thursday/Friday

20. Ms. Mitchell’s PPT:
THIS POWERPOINT WAS MODIFIED BY MS. COSTELLO FROM THE ABOVE SOURCE. ALWAYS CITE YOUR SOURCES.