Hydrocriticism and Colonialism in Latin America: Water Marks

Hydrocriticism and Colonialism in Latin America explores the critical and theoretical "turn" known as hydro-criticism, which proposes a hydro-critical approach to issues related to the colonial period. The analyzed texts demonstrate the presence of water and oceanic trajectories as metaphorical devices, and the inherent implication of navigation, ports, island territories, drainage systems, floodings, and the like in the configuration of collective imaginaries. This book encompasses studies of the decisive role water played in the world view from/about the "New World" since the discovery, and the impact of oceanic journeys for the advancement of colonization and slavery. It also highlights the connection between popular beliefs and oceanic dimensions, as well as issues of gender and ethnicity.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 25 September 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

Hydrocriticism and Colonialism in Latin America delve into the critical and theoretical "turn" known as hydro-criticism, an innovative approach to understanding the profound impact of bodies of water on the study of history, culture, and society. This comprehensive volume proposes a hydro-critical lens to examine issues related to the colonial period. Through a meticulous analysis of a selection of texts, the book showcases not only the metaphorical use of water and oceanic trajectories but also the inherent significance of navigation, ports, island territories, drainage systems, floods, and other water-related phenomena in shaping collective imaginaries from colonial times to the present. Spanning historical, linguistic, literary, and ethnographic approaches, this volume aims to broaden the scope and methodologies of colonial studies. Simultaneously, it explores the enduring maritime perspectives in contemporary literature, highlighting the critical importance of this critical paradigm for the study of Caribbean cultures.

In particular, the studies shed light on the interconnectedness between popular beliefs and oceanic dimensions, as well as on issues of gender and ethnicity. By delving into the hydro-critical framework, this volume offers a fresh perspective on the complex web of historical, cultural, and social processes that shaped Latin America during the colonial era and beyond. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in exploring the multifaceted relationships between water, power, and the construction of identities in the region.

Weight: 288g
Dimension: 148 x 210 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031089053
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022