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Open Access Thesis

Keywords

Arreola, Juan José--Guardagujas; Monterroso, Augusto--Mr Taylor; García Márquez, Gabriel, --1927-2014--Funerales de la Mamá Grande; Culture conflict--Latin America; Culture conflict; Culture conflict in literature; Latin America;

Abstract

My research attempts to identify certain phenomena that are directly related to the basic concepts of the axiom which describes the unique process of modernization in Latin America as follows: Premodernity, modernity and postmodernity coexist in Latin American culture, creating a condition of ambiguity and multiple identity. I have found that Multi-temporality, the coexistence of several ages in the same space, has been the most important phenomenon in the development of all Latin American countries. My thesis demonstrates how Multi-temporality may be identified in some Latin American twentieth century short stories. Although this study is limited to only three well-known stories, they are excellent examples that define Multi-temporality and explain its role within the scope of Latin American short fiction. I focus specifically on three short stories written by recognized writers from different periods of 20th century Latin American literature. First of all, my intention is to explore the main historical facts that are causes of this special process of modernization in Latin America. In my project I discuss moments in Latin American history, and then define terms such as Premodernity, Modernity, and Postmodernity. I also specify how they are related to the development of the subcontinent. Finally, in the second part of my research, I identify those concepts and realities in each of the stories. "Cultural Diglossia" is produced by Multi-temporality. It is the state of affairs where more than two cultures from different time periods take place in one context. "Cultural Diglossia" originates within individuals capable of handling two or more cultural codes. A good example of "Cultural Diglossia" is the coexistence of different religious rituals, such as Christianity, African and indigenous tribal practices; all of these beliefs are assimilated and practiced in the same context by the same person. Multi-temporality is seen in many large Latin American cities, where it is easy to observe the cohabitation of modem trains and expressways, and at the same time, rambling buses and horse-drawn buggies. It is also viewed through the integration of different types of trade: modem malls and street vendors.

Year of Submission

2001

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Department

Department of Modern Languages

First Advisor

Mario Morales

Second Advisor

Antonio Planells

Third Advisor

Sara Rosell

Comments

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Date Original

2001

Object Description

1 PDF file (81 leaves)

Language

spa

File Format

application/pdf

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