Why teach Multicultural (specifically Latino) literature?

As the population of the United States grows and changes, so too does the body of literature that surrounds our students. As effective educators, we must adapt the dominant canon of literature to reflect our changing society. Previous literary studies ignore and even belittle many minority writers, genres, and literary works. Through our inclusion and celebration of authors and works of literature of many diverse cultures, we can teach our students to similarly respect the diverse members of our society. The Latino population in the United States has become a quickly growing group that may even surpass its label as a minority. Many Latino cultural elements have become incorporated into every day life in the U.S., and understanding these social, economic, and personal values and histories can help students to appreciate not only their Latino coworkers and neighbors, but also to develop a sense of tolerance and respect for other cultures and societies.

But what themes run through this type of literature?

Many typical literary themes that prevail in young adult, canonical, and avant garde literature are to be found in Latino literature, such as coming of age, love relationships, and life hardships. Some themes, however, seem particularly recurrent within genres in this realm. Familial relationships, loyalties, and duties, poverty, and gender roles. Familial relationships are prevalent in Latino literature because of the importance they play in Latino culture. Family is considered one's strongest bond and loyalty, and people in the workforce must often work to support relatives both in the U.S. and in other native countries. In some families, as in Esquivel's Like Water for Chocolate, a child is even bound to never marry and care only for their parents. Poverty is largely at issue because of the desperate situations in which many Latin American countries find themselves. Many workers come to the United States and live in poor conditions in migrant camps in order to feed their families. Other families inhabit the slums and barrios of urban areas in the United States and Mexico. Gender roles are defined by Mexican and other Latino citizens' cultural history and social roles. In many families, traditions from older, more agrarian, times prevail, with women being forced to stay at home and care for their families rather than obtain outside work. Women are expected to be obedient and uphold their family honor, often never allowing them to claim time, space, or a sense of accomplishment in themselves.

But what can I teach?

Here are some suggestions of Works of Literature

Where can I find help in teaching this literature?

All artwork by Mexican painter and muralist Diego Rivera

Back to Teaching

Back HOME!

E-Mail Me!

Last Updated July 8, 2004