This course has as its main purpose to serve as an introduction to the issues shaping contemporary Latin America through stimulating readings and class discussions. The main topic of the course will be to explore the tension between two opposing forces: tradition and change, and how that tension informs key issues, such as social class, ethnicity, religion, family, and education. This course is taught in Spanish. Prerequisite: SPAN 202 - Intermediate Spanish II or △ SPAN 301 - Spanish Composition and Conversation or SPAN 310 - Spanish for Native/Heritage Speakers or equivalent. Grade or P/NC. Offered annually (usually fall semester).