Magical realism
A literary style that blends fantastical elements with realistic settings, often used to address social and political issues.
Bilingualism
The ability to speak and understand two languages, often found in U.S. Latino literature to reflect bicultural experiences.
Cultural identity
The sense of belonging to a particular culture, often explored in literature as characters navigate multiple cultural influences.
Chicano literature
Literature produced by Mexican-American authors that addresses themes of cultural identity, immigration, and social justice.
Coming of age
A literary theme focusing on the transition from childhood to adulthood and the personal growth that accompanies it.
Poetic language
Rich, descriptive language often used in literature to evoke emotions and imagery.
Internal conflict
A struggle within a character that drives their development, often seen in narratives about personal growth.
Symbolism
The use of symbols to signify ideas and qualities, conveying deeper meanings in literature.
First-person narration
A storytelling technique where the narrator is a character in the story, providing personal reflections.
Themes of nature
Exploration of the relationship between humans and the natural world, often highlighting respect for nature and its forces.
Social justice
The pursuit of equality and fair treatment within society, a common theme in contemporary literature.
Identity crisis
A period of uncertainty and confusion about one’s sense of self, often explored in coming-of-age narratives.
Cultural conflict
Struggles that arise from differing cultural backgrounds, often depicted in literature reflecting diverse identities.
Free verse
A form of poetry that does not follow traditional meter patterns, allowing greater flexibility of expression.
Testimonial literature
A genre focusing on first-person narratives of political and social struggles, often representing marginalized voices.
Folklore
Traditional beliefs, customs, and stories of a community passed down through generations, often referenced in literature.
Influence of political oppression
The impact of dictatorial regimes and social injustices on individuals and communities, a common theme in Latin American literature.
Imagery
Descriptive language that creates vivid mental pictures, enhancing the reader's experience and understanding.
Narrative techniques
Methods used by authors to tell a story, including structure, perspective, and style choices.
Cuban Revolution
A pivotal event from 1953 to 1959 that influenced Cuban literature through themes of exile and cultural displacement.
Generation of '27
A group of Spanish poets who sought to revive Spanish poetry using avant-garde techniques and cultural appreciation.
Boom literature
A literary movement in the 1960s and 1970s characterized by innovative narratives and political themes that gained worldwide recognition.
Ethnicity
A classification based on cultural or national origins, often examined in literature to explore identity themes.
Juvenile protagonist
Main characters in literature who are younger and often face unique challenges related to their age.
Supernatural elements
Otherworldly features in literature that highlight the mystical or unexplained aspects of life.
Growing recognition of diversity
Acknowledgment and appreciation of varied cultural representations in literature and the arts.
Poetry collection
A book or anthology containing a range of poems by an author or group of authors.
Social inequality
The unequal distribution of resources, opportunities, and privileges within a society, often critiqued in literature.
Hispanic-American experiences
The diverse cultural, social, and political experiences of individuals of Hispanic descent living in the United States.
Symbol of freedom
An object or concept that embodies the ideals of independence and liberation, often used in literature.
Historical context
The background of events and conditions surrounding a work of literature or a literary movement.
Cultural heritage
The traditions, customs, and artifacts passed down through generations that shape cultural identity.
Psychological themes
Considerations of mental and emotional processes that influence characters' behavior and motivations.
Language and form innovation
Creative approaches in writing that push the boundaries of traditional literary styles.
Latinx literature
A term encompassing literature created by writers of Latin American descent, addressing various cultural themes.
Heroic journey
A narrative framework involving a protagonist who undergoes significant challenges and transformations.
Creative expression
The process of conveying thoughts, feelings, or ideas through artistic means, including literature, art, and performance.
Cultural resilience
The capacity of a cultural group to maintain and adapt their traditions despite external challenges.
Literary critique
Analysis and evaluation of literary works, often examining themes, styles, and historical significance.
Environmental themes
Explorations of the relationship between humans and the natural world, often highlighting sustainability.
Social commentary
The use of literary works to reflect, criticize, or illuminate societal issues and norms.
Intercultural dialogue
Communication between cultures that fosters understanding and exchange, often represented in literature.
Emotional resonance
The ability of a piece of literature to evoke strong emotional responses from readers.
Narrative perspective
The angle or lens through which a story is told, influencing the reader’s understanding and connection to the events.
Tradition vs. modernity
The tension between established cultural practices and contemporary influences, often depicted in literature.
Cultural representation
The portrayal of diverse groups and identities in literature, crucial for fostering inclusivity and understanding.
Maturation process
The gradual development of a character's identity and understanding, often depicted in coming-of-age stories.
Artistic legacy
The enduring impact and contributions of artists and writers to their fields and cultural dialogue.