ANTH 220(S) The Latino City*
This course explores the ongoing transformation of North American urban spaces
by successive and overlapping waves of Latin American and Caribbean migration.
Which theoretical and methodological perspectives might be of value in understanding
this process? What would an anthropology of the Latino city look like, and how
would it draw on or differ from historical or sociological paradigms? Considering
ethnographic materials from a number of sites (Miami's enclaves of Little Havana
and Little Haiti; Mexican Chicago and L.A.; Caribbean New York), the seminar
examines the production and reproduction of urban Latino culture under regimes
of industrialization, post-colonialism, and globalization. In addition, we will
examine the relationship between representations of the city and the everyday
experience of it. Readings will include selections from: Engels, Simmel, Hannerz,
Appadurai, Holston, Stepick & Portes, Didion, Limón, and others. The viewing
of selected audiovisual materials is also required, and there will be one class
field trip. Format: seminar. Requirements: posting weekly e-reflections on course
materials, active class participation, and a final paper on a topic selected
in consultation with the instructor.
Enrollment limit: 15 (expected: 12).