SPAN 042. Borges: Aesthetics & Theory

(Cross-listed as LITR 042S)
Given his profound impact on modern literature and science, Jorge Luis Borges is, perhaps, the most influential writer of the 20^th century. His fiction anticipated the major topics of contemporary literary theory, and for many, Borges even prefigured the World Wide Web.

His short-stories showcase a deep engagement with his readings on mathematics, physics and astronomy, political science, linguistics and philosophy as well as deep connections with psychology and neuroscience. As a world author, Borges worked inside all cultural traditions: Asia and the Middle East, Judaism, Buddhism and Islam, and he offered a creative and irreverent response to Western literary tradition.

We will explore how Borges fictionalized theoretical problems without ever allowing the development of the tale to lose its aesthetic brilliance. This is an ideal Humanities course for students in all majors, including STEM students. No prior preparation in literature or Spanish is necessary.

Note: Spanish courses taught in English (LITR.S courses) do not count towards the Spanish minor. One Spanish course taken in English may count towards the Spanish major.

Taught in English.
Humanities.
1 credit.
Eligible for LALS, INTP, CPLT
Spring 2023. Martínez.
Spring 2024. Martínez.
Catalog chapter: Spanish
Department website: http://www.swarthmore.edu/spanish

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