Understanding Iberian Identity through the Analysis of Spanish and Portuguese National Identities In this course we will focus on different ways of understanding how the complex idea of “Iberian Identity” has been represented and reframed in Spain and Portugal over the centuries. In particular, we will analyze the concept of “Iberian Identity” as one that emerges directly from the differences and similarities already contained in the Spanish and Portuguese national identity discourses from the nineteenth-century to the present. We will put special emphasis on a full range of controversial collective narratives and memories that have shaped the Spanish and Portuguese discourses on national identity. We will look for power and social relations that are highlighted by the different and complementary discursive strategies of the dominant and subordinate discourses in both countries. We will deal with a variety of materials ranging from journal articles, political discourses, photographs, paintings, music, films, documentaries, and interviews, among others.

Understanding the Myth of Don Juan in the Western Tradition The myth of Don Juan has embodied the thoughts, desires, and aspirations of multiple authors from different times and countries. In this course we will gain insights into core characteristics that define the Don Juan persona. We will analyze the original components of the character of Don Juan, situate the myth in its social and historical contexts, and study the different dramatic and literary strategies used by authors, artists, and filmmakers in their construction of Don Juan. Resources to be analyzed will include: fiction, poetry, film (fiction and documentary), philosophical essays, painting, music, and performance. 3 hrs lect./disc.

Intermediate Spanish II A course for students seeking to perfect their academic writing skills in Spanish. The course is also an introduction to literary analysis and critical writing and will include reading and oral discussion of literary texts. The course will also include a thorough review of grammar at a fairly advanced level. This course may be used to fulfill the foreign languages distribution requirement.

Representations of Social, Cultural, and Political Identities in Spain In this course we will study the different representations of Spanish culture and politics. We will emphasize specific aspects that make Spain richly varied: Spain´s breathtaking reinvention and reaffirmation of its own identity after the Disaster of 1898, religious customs and conflicts, gender relations, political values of Spaniards. At the same time, the cultural impact of Don Quixote, Goya, Lorca, republicanism and dictatorship, civil war, flamenco, bullfighting, and soccer. Works to be discussed include a short selection of literary pieces, cultural, visual, musical, and film representations. This course is recommended for students planning to study in Spain.

An Introduction to the Study of Hispanic Literature This course in literature and advanced language is designed to introduce students to literary analysis and critical writing. The work will be based on the reading of a number of works in prose, drama, and poetry. Frequent short, critical essays will complement readings and provide students with practice in writing.

Beginning Spanish II This course is a continuation of SPAN 0101. Intensive reading, writing, and oral activities will advance students’ proficiency in Spanish in an academic setting.

Marta Manrique-Gomez

Reviews and ratings for Marta Manrique-Gomez at Middlebury College.Marta Manrique-Gomez teaches Understanding Iberian Identity, Myth of Don Juan, Intermediate Spanish II and more.  Explore top rated instructors and find the best for you.Is Marta Manrique-Gomez good ? Find out on MiddCourses.

There is a 10 page paper at the end of the course that takes a bit of time, and there was also 2 presentations. I believe we had 2 exams as well, with an in class essay as part of them. Besides the stress of the big projects and exams, the class was awesome. 

This class met once a week so we would read plays/books over the week and then meet to discuss. Everyone had to give a presentation on a play at one point in the semester. We wrote two long essays and had an exam on the readings, which was easy if you did them or went over the slides Marta provided.

i took this course to prepare for study abroad in spain. its very project-heavy. you read a chapter of the book, then present on it. It is a chill class and shes a great and knowledgeable professor. i would definitely take another class with her